Photovoltaic panel structure including a photovoltaic panel orientation adjustment device and a locking device.

Abstract

The invention relates to a photovoltaic panel support structure (1) comprising a base (10) defining a reference plane (P0) and a movable frame (11) receiving the photovoltaic panel (100) and defining a mounting plane (P1), the movable frame being rotatably mounted about a first axis (A1) on the base. The structure also includes a locking device arranged between the movable frame and the base for stabilizing the movable frame relative to the base in different positions, which includes a stabilizing member (12) comprising a first connecting element (121) that engages with various connecting elements (102) of the base located at varying distances from the first axis. A second locking member (13) is configured so that, in a locked position, it simultaneously engages with the first locking member and a first connecting element receiving it, thus holding them locked in position. (See Figure 1 for abbreviations)

Description

Title of the invention: Photovoltaic panel structure comprising a photovoltaic panel orientation adjustment device and a locking device. Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of photovoltaic panels or solar panels, and more particularly to a photovoltaic panel support structure that allows the tilt of the photovoltaic panel to be adjusted in order to make the best use of sunlight at various times of the year, for example, throughout the four seasons, and / or to be installed on various supports with different tilt angles, such as on a wall, on the ground, or on a roof. The present invention also relates to a photovoltaic installation comprising this type of support structure and a photovoltaic panel. Technological background

[0002] A photovoltaic panel is used to convert solar energy into electricity. It is composed of photovoltaic cells that capture photons from sunlight and generate an electric current through the photovoltaic effect. This electricity can then be used to power electrical appliances, stored in batteries for later use, or fed into the electrical grid. Photovoltaic panels are a sustainable and renewable solution for producing energy, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.

[0003] The orientation of photovoltaic panels is crucial for maximizing their efficiency. To capture the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day, the panels must be optimally oriented with respect to the sun's path. In the Northern Hemisphere, this generally means a southward orientation, as this allows the panels to receive the most direct sunlight possible. The tilt of the panels, which depends on the latitude, must also be adjusted to optimize the angle of incidence of the sun's rays, thus maximizing electricity production.

[0004] The importance of this orientation is linked to the fact that the amount of solar energy captured varies with the angle and position of the sun in the sky. Poor orientation or tilt of the panels can significantly reduce their energy yield, as they will not receive enough direct sunlight. By optimizing the orientation and tilt of the photovoltaic panel, maximum absorption of solar energy is ensured throughout the year, including during seasons when the sun is stronger. low in the sky. This ensures stable and efficient electricity production, making the installation of photovoltaic panels more efficient and profitable.

[0005] Photovoltaic panels can be installed on different types of surfaces, each with its own characteristics in terms of tilt. Therefore, different installation scenarios must be considered for a photovoltaic panel depending on the type of surface on which it is installed.

[0006] A photovoltaic panel is, for example, installed on one of the mounting surfaces listed below, the mounting surface having a specific angle relative to the ground:

[0007] • A pitched roof, this type of installation being common in residential buildings and often Well-suited for photovoltaic installations. The roof pitch largely determines the panel orientation. Generally, pitched roofs have a slope of 15 to 45 degrees. The optimal angle for the panels is close to the roof pitch, often adjusted slightly to optimize production according to latitude.

[0008] • A flat roof, used for example for commercial, industrial and for residential buildings. On these flat roofs, the panels are usually mounted on structures that tilt them at approximately 10 to 15 degrees.

[0009] • Directly on the ground, for example for photovoltaic power plants, generally installed in undeveloped areas, industrial wastelands or on agricultural land. The panels are mounted on inclined structures generally between 20 and 30 degrees, depending on the latitude and local conditions.

[0010] • On building facades, the panels being, for example, directly integrated in building facades. The surface area is then often vertical or close to vertical (90 degrees). This configuration is less optimal in terms of energy production compared to roofs, but it can be useful in high-density urban areas.

[0011] • On transport infrastructure such as bridges, tunnels, subway stations or train. The inclination of the landing surface varies depending on the specific structure.

[0012] The optimal tilt of a photovoltaic panel relative to a horizontal plane also depends on the latitude at which the photovoltaic panel is installed. Therefore, the optimal orientation of a photovoltaic panel according to its latitude follows these recommendations: • a tilt angle of the photovoltaic panel of 10 to 20° for a low latitude, i.e. between 0 and 23.5°; • an angle of inclination of the photovoltaic panel close to the inclination of the latitude of the installation site for a latitude between 23.5 and 50°; • a tilt angle of the photovoltaic panel greater than the tilt of the latitude of the installation site for a latitude greater than 50°, so as to maximize the exposure of the photovoltaic panel during the winter months when the sun is low on the horizon.

[0013] It is therefore essential to follow these recommended tilt angles to optimize the efficiency of a photovoltaic panel, regardless of the surface area. Additionally, the orientation of the photovoltaic panel should be adjusted according to the seasons.

[0014] Photovoltaic panel support structures described in the following documents are known: FR3112912; US9166525; CN214315144; CN209389991; US2024 / 0007043; CN113595486; CN112046326; FR3079090; US8176693; FR3056363; US9553544; and CN115913077. These photovoltaic panel support structures comprise a base that is fixed to a receiving surface, for example one of those mentioned above, and a movable frame that pivots relative to the base, and an adjustment device for fixing the movable frame relative to the base in two or more angular positions. Summary of the present invention

[0015] The present invention overcomes the technological background problems described above by designing a photovoltaic panel support structure that allows a photovoltaic panel to be mounted on different types of supports with varying orientations, while also allowing optimal adjustment of the photovoltaic panel's tilt relative to the vertical, thus enabling optimal use of the photovoltaic panel. Compared to existing solutions described in the aforementioned prior art documents, the photovoltaic panel support structure is intended to be simple in design, easy to use, and easily adaptable to allow modification of the angular position between the base and the mobile frame in more than two positions.

[0016] To this end, the invention relates firstly to a photovoltaic panel support structure, which comprises: - a base defining a reference plane, the base being configured to be mounted on a receiving surface; - a mobile frame defining an assembly plan, the mobile frame being configured to accommodate the photovoltaic panel; - a first pivot joint arranged between the mobile frame and the base to mount the mobile frame in rotation around a first axis on the base, the first axis being parallel to the reference and mounting planes; and - a locking device arranged between the mobile frame and the base, the locking device being configured to stabilize the mobile frame relative to the base according to at least two defined angular positions between the reference plane and the mounting plane. Furthermore, according to the invention, the locking device comprises: - an elongated stabilizing member, a second pivot link being arranged between the mobile frame and the stabilizing member to mount the stabilizing member in rotation around a second axis on the mobile frame, the second axis being parallel to and distant from the first axis, the stabilizing member comprising at a distal end of the second axis a first connection element; - a first locking mechanism fixed to the base and defining a third axis not parallel to the first axis and comprising at least two second connecting elements complementary to the first connecting element, defined along the third axis in different positions more or less distant from the first axis and configured to receive the first connecting element; and - a second locking mechanism, configured for • in a locked position, simultaneously engage the first connecting element and the first locking mechanism to keep the first connecting element locked in one of the at least two secondary connecting elements receiving it, and • in the unlocked position, release from the first locking device and / or the first connecting element and release the first connecting element from the second connecting element receiving it.

[0017] Such a structure allows the orientation of the photovoltaic panel to be adjusted for any surface receiving it, the receiving surface defining the surface of the support to which the base is fixed. The locking device makes it possible, in particular, to secure the structure in different adjustment positions, thus preventing any unintended change in the tilt angle of the photovoltaic panel, defined by the angle formed between the reference plane and the mounting plane.

[0018] According to an advantageous embodiment, the second locking member is mounted in a pivot joint around a fourth axis relative to the first connecting element when it is engaged on the first connecting element.

[0019] The second locking element is then captive because it is linked to the first connecting element. This link also allows the second locking element to be available regardless of which second connecting element is selected.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment, the second locking member is mounted in a pivot joint around a fifth axis relative to the first locking member when it is engaged on the first locking member.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment, the first locking member comprises a profile extending longitudinally along the third axis, the at least two second connecting elements being made up of sets of first and second notches arranged at different positions along the profile, each first notch being associated with a second notch, the first connecting element being made up of a rod configured to engage in one or the other of the at least two first notches, the second locking member comprising lugs configured to engage in a second notch associated with the first notch and a first hook configured to wrap around part of the first connecting element and to lock the rod in the first notch in the locked position.

[0022] A user is thus able to easily position the stabilizing member relative to the base by positioning the first connecting element in a first notch and then locking these elements relative to each other so as to guarantee their relative positioning using the second locking member.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment, the second locking member is elastic, the second locking member being stretched into the locked position and exerting a tensile force between the first connecting element and the first locking member so as to hold the first connecting element in the first notch receiving it. The use of a second elastic locking member thus avoids functional play in the mechanical connection between the stabilizing member and the base, thereby preventing any vibration and inaccuracy in the adjustment of the tilt angle of the photovoltaic panel and firmly holding the two parts in their relative position.

[0024] According to an advantageous embodiment, the movable frame includes a third connecting element, which is configured to fit into a second hook of the second locking member. The third connecting element is locked into the second hook when the reference and mounting planes form a minimal angle, and the second locking member is in the locked position in the second connecting element furthest from the first axis. In the embodiment where the second connecting elements consist of sets of first and second notches, as described above, the first connecting element is then housed in the first notch of said second connecting element furthest from the first axis, according to this minimal angle formed between the reference and mounting planes.

[0025] The third connection element thus allows for an additional orientation of the photovoltaic panel in which the reference and mounting planes are as close as possible, or even parallel. This configuration makes it easier to transport the structure, as it is then in a folded position, while maintaining it in this position, preventing any risk of opening the angle formed between the reference plane and the mounting plane, as well as any risk of collision between different elements of the structure. Furthermore, such a construction allows for the sharing of an element of the structure, here the second locking device, which can hold in position both the stabilizing device and the mobile frame.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment, the base comprises at least one fourth connecting element and the mobile frame comprises at least one fifth connecting element, the at least fourth and fifth connecting elements being complementary and configured to removably mount and lock the mobile frame onto the base, thus forming the first pivot joint along the first axis during assembly. Such a construction allows the structure to be assembled by the user and disassembled to facilitate transport. Other embodiments could be considered with a permanent pivot joint along the first axis between the mobile frame and the base, in which case the mobile frame and the base would remain connected at the first pivot joint.

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment, the third axis is parallel to the reference plane and normal to the first axis.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment, the stabilizing member is a rod with a circular cross-section. Such a rod is particularly easy to manufacture and economical.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment, the base comprises openings leading to a bearing surface, the bearing surface being parallel to the reference plane, configured to allow the passage of fastening elements. The base can thus be fixed securely to the receiving surface, for example by means of screws or bolts.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment, the structure includes a ballast element configured to be attached to the base. The ballast element then allows the structure to be placed on the ground without the use of any fasteners that could damage the surface. The structure is thus easily movable.

[0031] The invention also relates to a photovoltaic installation comprising the structure described above and a photovoltaic panel fixed to the mobile frame.

[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment, the photovoltaic installation comprises an inverter electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel via a junction box. The inverter is then sized according to, in particular, the electrical characteristics of the photovoltaic panel.

[0033] Thus, thanks to all the functional and structural technical characteristics of the present invention, we have a photovoltaic panel support structure or even a solid photovoltaic installation, suitable for installation on different reception surfaces with varied inclinations and easy handling allowing the inclination of the photovoltaic panel to be adjusted optimally regardless of the season. Brief description of the figures

[0034] The features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description below, with reference to the attached Figures 1 to 14, which illustrate various embodiments without being limiting in any way and on which: - Fig. 1 represents a perspective view of a photovoltaic installation comprising a photovoltaic panel support structure according to the present invention, according to an example of an embodiment; - [Fig.2] represents a partial exploded view of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.3] represents a partial perspective view of the base of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.4] represents a partial perspective view of the connection between the base and the mobile frame of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.5] represents a perspective view of the second locking mechanism of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.6] represents a partial perspective view of the locking device of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.7] represents a cross-sectional view of part of the locking device of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1]; - [Fig.8] represents a partial perspective view of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1] in a folded configuration from a first viewpoint; - [Fig.9] represents a partial perspective view of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig.1] in a folded configuration from a second viewpoint; - [Fig. 10] represents a perspective view of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig. 1] including a ballast; - Figure 11 represents a partial exploded view of the photovoltaic installation shown in Figure 10; and - Figure 12 shows a bottom view of the ballast element in Figure 10. Description of implementation examples

[0035] Examples of photovoltaic installations will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 12.

[0036] Figures 1 and 2 respectively represent a perspective view and a partial exploded view of a photovoltaic installation comprising a photovoltaic panel support structure according to the present invention, according to a particular embodiment.

[0037] The photovoltaic panel support structure 1 comprises a base 10 defining a reference plane PO, the base 10 being configured to be mounted on a mounting surface (not shown) whose inclination with respect to a vertical axis can be varied, the mounting surface belonging to a support such as the ground, a terrace, a A vertical wall, a sloping wall, a pitched roof, or a flat roof. For this purpose, the base 10 comprises, as illustrated in [Fig. 1], openings 104 leading to a bearing surface 103 allowing the passage of fasteners such as screws or bolts for attachment to the support. A bearing surface 103 beneath the base 10 rests against the receiving surface. The reference plane PO is then defined by the bearing surface 103. It should be noted that other fastening methods are also possible, such as, for example, clamps for securing the base 10 to the support. The base 10 may consist of several parts, assembled together or not and attached to the receiving surface, or of a single part attached to the receiving surface.

[0038] The base 10 further comprises means for receiving a movable frame 11, which is configured to receive a photovoltaic panel 100 and defines a mounting plane PI, the mounting plane PI being, for example, coincident with the functional surface of the photovoltaic panel, i.e., the surface along which photovoltaic cells are arranged, or a mean plane corresponding to this surface if the latter is not flat. According to a particular embodiment, openings 108 illustrated in Figures 3 and 4 are made in two distinct locations so as to receive respectively a first hinge 11b and a second hinge 11 arranged on the movable frame 11 to form a pivot joint between the base 10 and the movable frame 11, the relative position of the two openings 108 defining a first axis Al of rotation of the movable frame 11 around the base 10.The base 10 includes, for example, a part extending longitudinally and connecting the two openings 108, [Fig.3] representing in particular this part as a U, the openings 108 being made in the folded parts of this U. These openings 108 are preferably in the form of notches. In particular, fins 106 are arranged on the base 10 and mounted in translation on the latter by means of, for example, two pins inserted in oblong-shaped housings, so as to close the openings 108, thus allowing the first and second hinges 11b, 1 le to be locked in the openings 108 once the mobile frame is assembled on the base 10. Optionally, return elements such as springs 107 are positioned between the base 10 and each fin 106 in order to return each fin 106 to its locking position, thus ensuring that the first and second hinges 11b, 1 le are held securely in position.The openings 108, fins 106, and springs 107 then form a subassembly called the fourth connecting element, which receives a fifth connecting element comprising a first or second hinge 11b, 11c. The fourth and fifth connecting elements are thus complementary and configured to removably mount and lock the mobile frame 11 onto the base 10, constituting the first pivot joint along the first axis Al during assembly. The... The first and second hinges 11b, 1 are here additional elements mounted on the movable frame 11, for example fixed by crimping or screwing. According to other embodiments, it is possible to make them as a single element, or even to integrate them directly into the main body of the movable frame 11, for example by machining or by using a main body of the movable frame made of a thermoplastic material and obtained by molding.

[0039] Figure 2 shows a partial exploded view of the photovoltaic installation. In this example, the mobile frame 11 includes a frame 1a, which is configured to receive a photovoltaic panel 100. In one embodiment, this frame 1a can be an integral part of the photovoltaic panel 100. The frame 1a has a receiving surface suitable for supporting the rear face 1001 of the photovoltaic panel 100. The lateral surfaces of the photovoltaic panel 100 are then inserted between internal lateral surfaces of the mobile frame 11 so as to laterally hold the photovoltaic panel 100 within the frame 1a. Note that the functional surface of the photovoltaic panel 100, i.e., the surface comprising the photovoltaic cells, is the upper surface 1002 of the photovoltaic panel 100.Frame 1, for example, is made from metal angle brackets, which are butted, welded or bent in several places, corresponding to the corners of frame 1a, at right angles.

[0040] It should be noted that the first axis Al is parallel to both the datum plane PO and the mounting plane PL. The rotation of the mobile frame 11 relative to the base 10 around this first axis Al has the effect of linearly varying the angle between the datum plane PO and the mounting plane PL. In order to regulate or adjust this angle between these two planes, a locking device is arranged between the mobile frame 11 and the base 10, the locking device being configured to stabilize the mobile frame 11 relative to the base 10 in at least two defined angular positions between the datum plane PO and the mounting plane PL.

[0041] The locking device comprises several elements, including an elongated stabilizing member 12, which is mounted on the mobile frame 11 by means of a first shoe 12a and a second shoe 12b. The stabilizing member 12 is connected to each of these shoes 12a, 12b via a pivot joint, the pivot joints being coaxial about a second axis A2 of rotation distant from the first axis AL. The stabilizing member 12 is then free to rotate about the second axis A2 and, when the shoes 12a, 12b are fixed on the mobile frame 11, free to rotate relative to the mobile frame 11 about the second axis A2. In one embodiment, it is possible to provide a plurality of holes on each shoe 12a, 12b into which the ends of the stabilizing member 12 are inserted so as to offer the possibility of modifying the position of the second axis A2 relative to the first axis Al, having for advantageous effect of multiplying the number of angle values ​​a of inclination of the mounting plane PI with respect to the reference plane PO.

[0042] The brackets 12a, 12b are, for example, positioned in the middle of two opposite uprights of the frame 1la, so as to make the first and second axes A1, A2 parallel. The shape of the brackets 12a, 12b makes it possible, in particular, to avoid deforming the frame 1la when tightening the screws that secure the brackets 12a, 12b, if applicable.Their position relative to the frame uprights 1 is not, however, limited to this middle position; indeed, the main constraint is to obtain the two axes Al, A2 parallel and to allow adjustment of the angle of inclination of the mounting plane PI relative to the reference plane PO, noted a, which varies according to: • the relative position of the hinges 11b, 11 on the base 10, therefore the position of the first axis Al, • the relative position of the shoes 12a, 12b on the upright of the mobile frame 11, therefore the position of the second axis A2 relative to the first axis Al, a length Li separating the first axis Al from the second axis A2, a plurality of positions being possible, according to other embodiment examples, for example by means of a sliding connection and clamping of the shoes 12a, 12b on the mobile frame 11 or by making several tapped holes in the mobile frame 11. • a height of the stabilizing organ 12, this second length being denoted L2, and corresponding to the distance separating the second axis A2 from a fourth axis A4 associated with the first connecting element 121 of the stabilizing organ 12, • a position of one end of the stabilizing organ 12 distal to the second axis A2 relative to base 10, the distance between this position and that of the first axis Al is noted L3 and is a function of a distance separating the second and fourth axes A2, A4.

[0043] Indeed, the end of the stabilizing member 12, distal to the second axis A2, includes a first connection element 121. In order to position this end relative to the base 10 and thus to adjust the angle a between the reference planes PO and mounting plane PI, the locking device includes a first locking member 101 integral with the base 10 comprising several second connection elements 102, complementary to the first connection element 121, defined according to different positions more or less distant from the first axis Al and configured to receive each the first connection element 121.The second connecting elements 102 are, for example, aligned along a third axis A3 normal to the first axis Al and parallel to the reference plane PO, and distributed regularly along this third axis A3 or in such a way as to define a set of angle values, the value of the angle a between the reference planes PO and the mounting plane PI belonging to this set of angle values. Thus, the second connecting elements 102 allow for positioning. the connecting element 121 at a determined distance from the first axis Al, this distance being included in a set of values ​​corresponding to the distances separating each of the second connecting elements 102 from the first axis Al.

[0044] Depending on the second connecting element 102 in which the connecting element 121 is positioned, the angle α between the reference plane PO and the mounting plane PI varies. According to this particular embodiment, the value of angle α is, for example, equal to: • 0° when the stabilizing member 12 is not used, i.e. when the connecting element 121 is not inserted into any second connecting element 102, or when the connecting element 121 is inserted into the second connecting element 102 furthest from the first axis Al, the reference planes PO and mounting plane PI being parallel and this position corresponding to a “folded configuration”, • 30°, 40° and 50° when the connecting element 121 is inserted into one of the following second connecting elements 102 (in the direction of the first axis Al), and • 60° when the connecting element 121 is inserted into the second connecting element 102 closest to the first axis Al.

[0045] The set of angle values ​​then comprises, according to this illustrated example, the following values: {0°; 30°; 40°; 50°; 60°}. Obviously, other values ​​are possible by translating or adding one of the second connection elements 102 along the third axis A3. Thus, according to the specific embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 1], the photovoltaic installation has five possible tilt settings defined by the position of the first connection element in one of the second connection elements 102 of the base 10. Defining these angle values ​​then makes it possible to offer the same settings, that is to say, to offer the same tilts of the solar panel with respect to a vertical axis, whether the photovoltaic installation is installed on a vertical wall, on a flat roof, or on the ground, the latter being horizontal.

[0046] Figures 6 and 7 show a partial perspective and cross-sectional view of the locking device of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig. 1]. The various elements of the locking device are thus distinguished. According to the illustrated example, the first locking member 101 comprises a U-shaped profile extending longitudinally along the third axis A3. The second connecting members 102 consist of sets of first and second notches arranged at different positions along the profile, each first notch 102a being associated with a second notch 102b. The stabilizing member 12 is a rod with a circular cross-section, consisting of a rod having a more or less V-shape with a flattened apex in its central part. This central part constitutes the first connecting member 121 extending along the fourth axis A4. of the rod being configured to engage in either of the first notches 102a.

[0047] In order to hold the first connecting element 121 in a second connecting element 102, more precisely in a first notch 102a according to this particular embodiment, the locking device includes a second locking member 13 configured to • in a locked position, simultaneously engage the first connecting element 121 and the first locking member 101, in a second notch 102b according to this particular embodiment, to keep the first connecting element 121 locked in one of the second connecting elements 102 receiving it, and • in the unlocking position, release from the first locking member 101 and / or the first connecting element 121 and release the first connecting element 121 from the second connecting element 102 receiving it.

[0048] For this purpose and as illustrated in [Fig.5], according to this particular embodiment, the second locking member 13 has a symmetrical shape and includes lugs 132 configured to each engage in a second notch 102b associated with the first notch 102a receiving the first connecting element 121 and a first hook 131 configured to wrap around a part of the first connecting element 121 and, thus, lock the rod in the first notch 102a in the locking position.

[0049] Thus, the second locking member 13 is mounted via a pivot joint around the fourth axis A4 relative to the first connecting element 121 when it is engaged with the first connecting element 121. Consequently, the second locking member 13 cannot be lost and is permanently correctly positioned relative to the stabilizing member 12. According to this particular embodiment, a user therefore does not need to mount the second locking member 13 onto the stabilizing member 12.Furthermore, the presence of this second locking member 13 does not hinder the insertion of the first connecting element 121 into the notches 102a, the width of the first hook 131 being less than the distance separating the external surfaces of the two lateral walls of the first U-shaped locking member 101 on which the notches 102a are arranged, thus allowing easy insertion of the first connecting element 121 into the notches 102a while retaining the second locking member 13 mounted on the first connecting element 121.

[0050] Once the first connecting element 121 is inserted into the notches 102a, the user pivots the second locking member 13 around the fourth axis A4 and engages the lugs 132 in the second notches 102b associated with the first notches 102a receiving the first connecting element 121. The second The locking member 13 is preferably elastic. Thus, if the distance separating the lugs 132 from the fourth axis A4 is less than the distance separating the fourth axis A4 inserted in the first notches 102a from a fifth axis A5 defined by the second notches, the second locking member 13 is stretched so that the lugs 132 are inserted into the second notches 102b in the locked position and a tensile force is then exerted between the first connecting element 121 and the first locking member 101 so as to maintain the first connecting element 121 in the first notch 102a receiving it. It should be noted that the shape of the lugs 132 and the second notches 102a allows a pivot link to be created between the second locking member 13 and the first locking member 101 when the second locking member 13 is engaged on the first locking member 101.This pivot joint then has as its axis the fifth axis A5 defined by the second notches 102b receiving the second locking member 13. The second locking member 13 is thus mounted in a hyperstatic manner on the first connecting element 121 and on the first locking member.

[0051] It should be noted that the second connection elements 102 are, according to this example, made directly in the main body of the first locking member 101. However, it is possible, according to other embodiments, to provide second connection elements 102 added to the main body of the first locking member 101, these second connection elements 102 being, for example, identical and fixed to the main body of the first locking member 101 by screwing or crimping, thus allowing standardization of the implementation of the locking device while allowing great flexibility in the implementation of different variants of the structure of the photovoltaic installation.

[0052] Figures 8 and 9 show a partial perspective view of the photovoltaic installation of [Fig. 1] in a folded configuration from two distinct viewpoints. According to this configuration, the reference planes PO and PI form a minimal angle, equal to 0° in this particular embodiment. To ensure the relative positions of the mobile frame 11 and the base 10 in this configuration, corresponding, for example, to the transport configuration for compactness reasons, additional locking elements are optionally added.Thus, the mobile frame 11 includes a third connecting element 112, which is configured to fit into a second hook 133 of the second locking member 13, the third connecting element 112 being locked in the second hook 133 when the reference planes PO and mounting plane PI form this minimum angle, and the second locking member 13 is in the locking position in the second connecting element 102 furthest from the first axis AL. The first connecting element 121 is then housed in the first notch 102a of said. second connecting element 102 furthest from the first axis Al and the lugs 132 of the second locking member 13 are placed in the second notch 102b associated with said first notch 102b, as illustrated in [Fig.8].

[0053] When a user pivots the second locking member 13 to insert the lugs 132 into the second notches 102b, the second hook 133 comes into contact with the external surface of the third connecting element 112, which here has a cylindrical shape complementary to the shape of the second hook 133. Once the lugs 132 are inserted into the second notches 102b, the second locking member holds both the stabilizing member 12 and the mobile frame 11 in position, thus preventing any untimely movement of the structural elements 1 during transport, thereby avoiding any risk of collision between these elements and therefore any damage to the structural elements 1.

[0054] This technical solution has the advantage of combining the locking mechanism, allowing the user to lock and unlock the mobile frame 11 in position relative to the base 10 by following the same steps regardless of the desired configuration. The fourth connection element 112 is here an element attached to the frame 1la of the mobile frame 11; however, other embodiments are conceivable, for example, to integrate this function directly into the frame lia.

[0055] Optionally, in order to be able to place the solar installation on the ground for example, without fixing it to a support, a ballast element 17 is added to the structure 1.

[0056] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the photovoltaic system of Figure 1, which includes such a ballast element 17. The ballast element 17 is configured, in particular, to be attached to the base 10 of the structure 1 and thus replaces the support on which the structure 1 is fixed. The ballast element 17 is, for example, made of a high-density solid material, such as metal, concrete, or a high-density composite. In other embodiments, it consists of a casing filled with another material, such as water or sand, allowing an installer of the photovoltaic system to easily transport the empty and therefore lightweight ballast element 17 and then fill it with this other material once installed.

[0057] Figure 11 shows a partial exploded view of the photovoltaic installation of Figure 10. According to this example, the ballast element 17 comprises bosses 174 distributed on either side of a groove 173, which forms the receiving surface for the support and against which the bearing surface 103 of the base 10 rests. Holes 175 are positioned in this groove 173, which are configured to receive the fastening means for attaching the base 10 to the ballast element 17. These holes are, for example, through or threaded to allow the base 10 and the ballast element 17 to be assembled with a certain type of fastening means. These holes 175 are in particular positioned so as to be opposite the orifices 104 when the base 10 is positioned on the ballast element 17.

[0058] Figure 12 shows a bottom view of the ballast element of Figure 10. According to a particular embodiment, the ballast element 17 includes pads 171 positioned on its rear face, which allow, for example, runoff water to pass under the ballast element 17. The number of pads 171 is determined so as, for example, to avoid puncturing a second support on which the ballast element 17 is placed, for example, to avoid perforating a waterproofing membrane laid on a roof terrace.

[0059] Between the studs 171 there appear grooves 172, these allow for example the passage of an electrical cable, which allows the photovoltaic installation to be electrically connected to an electrical network.

[0060] According to another variant not illustrated, the rear face of the ballast element 17 is solid so as to maximize the bearing surface of the ballast element 17 on a support.

[0061] According to a particular embodiment illustrated in particular in [Fig.2], the structure 1 of the photovoltaic installation comprises a photovoltaic panel 100 fixed to the mobile frame 11 and an inverter 200 electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel 100.

[0062] The junction box is for example glued to the rear face 1001 of the photovoltaic panel 100, is connected at the input to the photovoltaic cells of the photovoltaic panel 100 and is connected at the output to the inverter 200 via two electrical wires, the two electrical wires being traversed by a direct current when the photovoltaic panel receives solar radiation on its front face 1002.

[0063] The inverter 200 is, for example, a micro-inverter, configured to be connected to the photovoltaic panel 100 via the junction box (not shown). Optionally, the inverter 200 is also connected to other photovoltaic installations of the same type, the latter not having an inverter 200, the inverter 200 being shared for several adjacent photovoltaic installations, for example.

[0064] The inverter 200 is for example fixed to the base 10 by means of fixing elements, for example via the passages 105 made in the base 10 and visible in particular in the [Fig.3].

[0065] Such a photovoltaic installation is thus easy to install on different supports with varying inclinations. The inclination of the photovoltaic panel in this installation is then easily adjustable, an angle between a reference plane associated with the base of the photovoltaic panel support structure and a mounting plane of the photovoltaic panel being defined by means of a simple, intuitive, and safe adjustment mechanism. A user is thus able to place such a photovoltaic installation on a support of their choosing and to adapt the photovoltaic panel support structure in order to adjust the tilt of the photovoltaic panel ideally according to the season for example.

[0066] The invention is not limited, however, to the configurations and embodiments described above, but extends to any photovoltaic installation equipped with a photovoltaic panel support structure presented above.

[0067] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to particular examples of embodiments of the present invention, but that in no case does this description limit the scope of the invention; on the contrary, its purpose is to remove any possible imprecision or misinterpretation of the following claims.

[0068] It should also be noted that the reference signs in parentheses in the following claims are in no way intended to be limiting; these signs are solely intended to improve the intelligibility and understanding of the following claims and the scope of the protection sought.

Claims

1. Demands Photovoltaic panel support structure (1), which includes: - a base (10) defining a reference plane (PO), the base (10) being configured to be mounted on a receiving surface; - a mobile frame (11) defining a mounting plan (PI), the mobile frame being configured to accommodate the photovoltaic panel (100); - a first pivot joint arranged between the mobile frame (11) and the base (10) to mount the mobile frame (11) on the base (10) in rotation around a first axis (Al), the first axis (Al) being parallel to the reference (PO) and mounting (PI) planes; and - a locking device arranged between the mobile frame (11) and the base (10), the locking device being configured to stabilize the mobile frame (11) relative to the base (10) according to at least two angular positions defined between the reference plane (PO) and the mounting plane (PI); Structure (1) is characterized in that the locking device comprises: - a stabilizing member (12) of elongated shape, a second pivot link being arranged between the mobile frame (11) and the stabilizing member (12) to mount in rotation around a second axis (A2) the stabilizing member (12) on the mobile frame (11), the second axis (A2) being parallel to the first axis (A1) and distant from it, the stabilizing member (12) comprising at a distal end of the second axis (A2) a first connection element (121); - a first locking member (101) integral with the base (10) and defining a third axis (A3) not parallel to the first axis (Al) and comprising at least two second connection elements (102) complementary to the first connection element (121), defined along the third axis (A3) in different positions more or less distant from the first axis (Al) and configured to receive the first connection element (121); and - a second locking mechanism (13), configured for • in a locked position, simultaneously engage the first connecting element (121) and the first locking member (101) to keep the first element locked connection (121) in one of the at least two second connection elements (102) receiving it, and • in the unlocking position, release from the first locking member (101) and / or the first connection element (121) and release the first connection element (121) from the second connection element (102) receiving it.

2. Structure (1) according to claim 1, wherein the second locking member (13) is mounted in pivot joint about a fourth axis (A4) relative to the first connecting element (121) when it is engaged on the first connecting element (121).

3. Structure (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second locking member (13) is mounted in pivot joint about a fifth axis (A5) relative to the first locking member (101) when it is engaged on the first locking member (101).

4. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first locking member (101) comprises a profile extending longitudinally along the third axis (A3), the at least two second connecting members (102) being made up of sets of first and second notches arranged at different positions along the profile, each first notch (102a) being associated with a second notch (102b), the first connecting member (121) being made up of a rod configured to engage in either of the at least two first notches (102a), the second locking member (13) comprising lugs (132) configured to engage in a second notch (102b) associated with the first notch (102a) and a first hook (131) configured to enclose a portion of said first connecting member (121) and to lock the rod in the first notch (102a) in the locking position.

5. Structure (1) according to claim 4, wherein said second locking member (13) is elastic, said second locking member (13) being stretched into the locking position and exerting a tensile force between the first connecting element (121) and the first locking member (101) so as to maintain the first connecting element (121) in the first notch (102a) receiving it.

6. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the movable frame (11) comprises a third connecting element (112), which is configured to fit into a second hook (133) of the second locking member (13), the third connecting element (112) being locked in the second hook (133) when the reference planes (PO) and mounting plane (PI) form a minimum angle, and the second locking member (13) is in the locking position in the second connecting element (102) furthest from the first axis (Al).

7. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the base (10) comprises at least one fourth connecting element (106, 107, 108) and the mobile frame (11) comprises at least one fifth connecting element (11b, 11e), the at least one fourth connecting element and the at least one fifth connecting element being complementary and configured to mount and removably lock the mobile frame onto the base by constituting said first pivot connection along the first axis (A1i), during said mounting.

8. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the third axis (A3) is parallel to the reference plane (PO) and normal to the first axis (Al).

9. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the stabilizing member (12) is a rod of circular cross-section.

10. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base (10) comprises orifices (104) opening onto a bearing surface (103), the bearing surface (103) being parallel to the reference plane (PO), said orifices (104) being configured to allow the passage of fastening elements.

11. Structure (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which includes a ballast element (17) configured to be moored to the base (10).

12. Photovoltaic installation comprising the structure (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a photovoltaic panel (100) fixed to the mobile frame (11).

13. Photovoltaic installation according to claim 12, which includes an inverter (200) electrically connected to the photovoltaic panel (100).

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