Opto-mechanical systems for light regulation and power generation

Abstract

The present invention relates to an opto-mechanical system 10a, 10b for light conditioning and power generation, comprising a translucent photovoltaic module 23 with a plurality of bifacial photovoltaic cells 30 arranged in rows and columns with gaps 32 between the rows and / or columns allowing sunlight to pass through, at least one optical device 40 arranged in an operating plane Pa, Pb behind the translucent photovoltaic module 23 and comprising at least one reflective optical element redirecting light towards the rear side of the photovoltaic module, and a control system 60 configured to operate the at least one optical device 40 to adjust the projected area of ​​the at least one reflective optical element on the operating plane Pa, Pb.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of opto-mechanical systems, and more particularly to opto-mechanical systems adapted to regulate light transmission and power generation, particularly in agricultural equipment. [Background technology]

[0002] Solar power plants and agriculture are increasingly competing for land use. Both processes have relatively low energy conversion yields and require large open spaces with similar characteristics, such as a moderate amount of solar radiation, relatively flat ground with minimal shading or obstructions, and reasonable proximity to urban areas to alternatively generate electricity or grow food. Thus, there is a strong motivation for inventions that allow both activities to take place on the same piece of land.

[0003] As the climate gets warmer, more and more types of crops require protective structures against harsh weather phenomena such as hail, heavy rain, frost or heat waves. Such protections can range from simple shade nets to plastic tunnels, plastic greenhouses and even high-end greenhouses. Most of these protections can be effectively replaced by photovoltaic modules mounted on the support structure, as long as the structure is compatible with the agricultural activities carried out below it.

[0004] Additionally, there is interest in producing renewable electricity on-site that can be used in energy-intensive agricultural processes. The energy can be used, for example, to power heating or cooling systems, irrigation pumps, plant storage refrigerators, etc. Additionally, in warmer climates, the need for irrigation can also be reduced by reducing the amount of light directly incident on the crops. In greenhouses, reducing the amount of solar radiation can reduce or even eliminate the need for cooling systems.

[0005] Placing traditional silicon photovoltaics (PV) modules above the crops or greenhouses is one solution. Traditional PV modules are very cheap and can be mass produced. However, PV modules are completely opaque and will shade the plants below them if not spaced far enough apart. Nevertheless, spacing PV modules far apart is not very efficient as it leads to lower power generation and uneven illumination of the crops.

[0006] Another solution is to use transparent solar cells, such as organic cells, which can provide a high degree of transparency, specifically high light transmission, but such technologies typically achieve very low efficiencies, well below 10%, and suffer from stability issues when exposed to harsh environments.

[0007] Furthermore, both solutions mentioned above do not allow the amount of light transmitted to the crop to be adjusted according to the day or season, resulting in either too little or too much total light depending on the time of year and climate.

[0008] Alternatively, the solar modules can be mounted on rotating solar trackers, which are typically mounted to rotate the modules along an east-west and / or north-south axis. The amount of light falling on the crops below the solar modules can be adjusted by rotating the tracker to move the shade of the solar modules towards or away from the crops. Controlling the orientation of the solar modules is known as sun tracking using a tracker system. This tracker can effectively adjust the amount of light provided to the crops by exposing or shading the crops to full sun, but not to moderate illumination. The trackers must also have a wide angular range, typically at least + / - 60°, to effectively shade the crops below the solar modules, and require sufficient spacing between the tracker rows, as well as sufficient height to avoid interfering with human or mechanical agricultural activities below. Such systems are not compatible with greenhouse structures or rooftop installations due to their size and weight. Furthermore, the large spacing between the rows of tracks does not provide sufficient protection for the crop from severe weather such as heavy rain and / or hail.

[0009] For the above reasons, there remains a need for a system in agricultural facilities that can adjust light transmission and power generation, providing both highly adjustable light transmission to match the amount of sunlight required by the plants in the facility, and highly efficient conversion of excess light energy into electricity. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] These objects are achieved by an opto-mechanical system for light conditioning and power generation, in particular for agricultural installations, as defined in claim 1.

[0011] The optomechanical system according to the present invention comprises: at least one translucent photovoltaic module comprising a plurality of bifacial photovoltaic cells arranged in rows and columns with gaps between the rows, between the columns, or both, wherein the photovoltaic module is configured such that at least a portion of sunlight incident on a front side of the photovoltaic module is transmitted through the gaps; at least one optical device arranged in a working plane behind the translucent photovoltaic module, the optical device comprising at least one reflective optical element with a reflective surface adapted to redirect at least a portion of the transmitted sunlight towards a rear side of the translucent photovoltaic module opposite the front side; and the optomechanical system further comprises a control system configured to manipulate the at least one optical device to adjust a projected area of ​​the at least one reflective optical element on the working plane.

[0012] The opto-mechanical system according to the invention integrates one or more semi-transparent photovoltaic modules in which photovoltaic cells are separated by gaps. A portion of the incident sunlight striking the photovoltaic module is concentrated by the cells and used for energy conversion. At the same time, another portion of the incident light is transmitted through the gaps formed between the photovoltaic cells.

[0013] Advantageously, less than 50% of the surface of the at least one translucent photovoltaic module is covered with photovoltaic cells, or conversely, preferably at least 50% of the surface of the at least one translucent photovoltaic module is covered with gaps, i.e. open, or made of a transparent or translucent material adapted to transmit incident light, preferably with a light transmission of 80% or more.

[0014] According to the invention, one or more optical devices are arranged behind one or more photovoltaic modules to manage this incident light passing through the gap for energy conversion or illumination below the system. In this text, the terms behind, below or under when referring to a photovoltaic module are meant to refer to a location behind or downstream of this module in the propagation direction of the incident sunlight that strikes the module. The at least one optical device and the at least one semi-transparent photovoltaic module are generally superimposed (parallel or inclined relative to each other) in a transverse direction of the system that is substantially perpendicular to the working plane.

[0015] Each optical device can be manipulated by the control system between a number of configurations that differ in the total projected area of ​​the optical elements on the working plane, allowing adjustment of: - the amount of transmitted light that is reflected back towards the photovoltaic module, - the amount of transmitted light that is transmitted below the working plane, and / or - The direction of light reflected by an optical element for a given direction of sunlight incidence.

[0016] The working plane of an optical device is defined in the present context as the plane in which the reflective optical element generally extends or can move (in the case of a single optical element) or in which the reflective optical elements are arranged side by side (in the case of multiple optical elements).

[0017] The working plane may be substantially parallel to the ground or substantially parallel to at least one translucent photovoltaic module. A working plane parallel to the photovoltaic module advantageously ensures that light redirected by the optical device uniformly illuminates the rear surface of the photovoltaic module to avoid electrical misalignment between the interconnected photovoltaic cells. This is also beneficial in configurations where the opto-mechanical system harvests energy, as it ensures that the optical device blocks a large portion of the transmitted light.

[0018] In the case of multiple optical elements, the total projected area of ​​the optical elements on the working plane is defined as the sum of the projected areas of each optical element of the optical arrangement on the working plane.

[0019] A reflective optical element is generally to be understood in this context as any optical element comprising at least one reflective surface adapted to reflect at least a portion of the light that strikes it, the reflective optical element also being able to absorb and / or transmit another portion of the light that strikes it.

[0020] The control system can operate the optical device as needed to reflect maximum light towards the back side of the translucent photovoltaic module to maximize energy production, transmit maximum light below the optical device, for example to illuminate crops, or otherwise manage the light to obtain the best compromise between energy production and required illumination.

[0021] Both the energy production and illumination possibilities are optimized, maximizing the amount of reflected light in the energy harvesting configuration and at the same time minimizing the surface covered with reflective optics in the illumination configuration.

[0022] The control system is illustratively configured to selectively operate at least one optical device between at least a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the projected area of ​​the at least one reflective optical element in the second configuration is less than 50% of the projected area in the first configuration, preferably less than 30% of the projected area in the first configuration, and even more preferably less than 10% of the projected area in the first configuration.

[0023] The optical device may, according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprise at least one deformable curtain comprising at least one reflective optical element, and the control system is configured to reversibly at least partially retract or deploy the deformable curtain in a retraction direction parallel to the actuation plane.

[0024] Here, deformable means that the overall profile of the curtain can be modified between the retracted and deployed configurations, and this term should encompass both fully deformable curtains and partially deformable curtains.

[0025] The control system performs basic adjustments of the overall configuration of the curtain by retracting and / or deploying, adjusting the area covered by the curtain in the working plane and therefore the effective surface of the curtain that can block light (specifically the effective reflective surface of the curtain).

[0026] The deformable curtain, in its deployed configuration, can have a projected area in its working plane that is equal to or greater than the projected area in the same plane of the photovoltaic modules of the optomechanical system. Advantageously, the deformable curtain, in its deployed configuration, blocks substantially all sunlight passing through the at least one photovoltaic module.

[0027] Conversely, the deformable curtain has a projected area in the retracted configuration that is significantly smaller than the projected area of ​​the curtain in the deployed configuration, and therefore blocks only a minimal portion of the transmitted light or does not block any transmitted light at all, e.g., the projected area of ​​the curtain in the retracted configuration is one-tenth of the projected area of ​​the curtain in the deployed configuration.

[0028] For example, in agricultural applications, when crops require maximum light transmission, the curtains can be partially or fully retracted to minimize obstruction and shading of the transmitted light. Conversely, when it is desired to maximize power generation, the curtains can be deployed to maximize redirection of transmitted light toward the photovoltaic modules.

[0029] The control system is configured to adjust the overall configuration of the curtain at least between the deployed and retracted configurations, but may also be capable of operating the curtain in one or more intermediate, i.e., partially retracted, overall configurations.

[0030] In addition to this basic adjustment, the control system can be further configured to make fine adjustments to the position of the curtain in one particular overall configuration (specifically, but not limited to, the deployed configuration) by moving the curtain a distance on the order of the pitch between two photovoltaic cells of the photovoltaic module, typically a distance equal to this pitch or between half this pitch and included in between.

[0031] The curtain can illustratively have a number of regions with different optical properties, the curtain can specifically comprise alternating reflective and more transparent regions, the pitch between two adjacent similar regions being equal to the pitch between adjacent photovoltaic cells, and the control system can fine-tune the position of the curtain to control which region of the curtain faces the gap between the photovoltaic cells.

[0032] The deformable curtain may be one continuous element or may be made up of multiple sections that are linked together.

[0033] The curtain may advantageously be partially transparent or translucent and partially reflective over its entire surface, in which case the curtain can redirect at least a portion of the transmitted light towards the photovoltaic modules and transmit a remaining portion of the transmitted light towards the crops when in its deployed position. The curtain may, according to certain implementations, have a uniform reflectance and transmittance over its entire surface.

[0034] The deformable curtain may advantageously be at least partially flexible. The deformable curtain may for example be formed of one continuous flexible section or of multiple flexible sections linked together. The flexible section may for example be a flexible sheet or a woven fabric of interconnected flexible wires.

[0035] The deformable curtain may, according to another embodiment, be formed of multiple rigid sections that are movably linked to one another.

[0036] According to yet another embodiment, the deformable substrate can be formed of one or more rigid portions and multiple flexible portions linked together, for example, the rigid portions and the flexible portions can be arranged in a regular alternating manner to form a deformable curtain.

[0037] The deformable curtain may be pre-shaped, e.g. pre-pleated, to facilitate deformation of the curtain. According to another embodiment, the deformable curtain may be formed in multiple sections linked by articulated means.

[0038] The control system may include a folding system for folding the at least one deformable curtain. The folding system may be configured to fold the curtain, for example, into a concertina-like configuration.

[0039] The control system may, as another example, comprise a winding system for winding the at least one deformable curtain, for example comprising rollers around which the curtain is wound in the retracted configuration.

[0040] More generally, the control system typically comprises a displacement system adapted to move the deformable curtain between a retracted position and a deployed position, as well as an actuator for controlling the displacement system.

[0041] Such a displacement system may comprise at least one transmission system for moving the end of the curtain in a retracting direction upon actuation of the actuator, the transmission system comprising: - at least one elongated flexible component movably mounted around at least two rotatable supports and defining at least one (typically linear) useful section between the supports; - a connecting element for connecting one end of the curtain to the useful section; Equipped with.

[0042] The transmission system may further comprise a drive means for driving the useful section to move in one direction or the other of the retraction direction based on the actuator signal. The drive means may for example comprise a drive wheel engaging with the elongated component. The drive wheel may for example have a roughened peripheral surface adapted to drive the elongated component by frictional contact. The drive wheel may otherwise be a geared wheel and the elongated component may be a corresponding geared tine. The drive means may also be configured to drive one or more rotatable supports of the transmission system and may comprise an actuation means directly connected to the rotatable supports.

[0043] The useful section must have a length at least equal to the required maximum travel length of the edge of the curtain with which it is associated, to allow full deployment and retraction of the curtain.

[0044] The useful section may, according to a preferred embodiment, be substantially parallel to the retraction direction.

[0045] The elongated element may be, for example, a strip, a belt, or a cable.

[0046] The rotatable support may be, for example, a shaft, a wheel, or a pulley.

[0047] The elongate element may advantageously be an endless element, such as an endless belt or cable.

[0048] Both ends of the at least one curtain may according to an advantageous embodiment be movable in a retracting direction. The control system may in particular be configured to move both ends of the at least one curtain in a retracting direction simultaneously or separately.

[0049] The ends of the curtain may specifically be independently movable in the retracting direction.

[0050] The deformable curtain may in this case be retractable and deployable at the two ends of the curtain.

[0051] Each end of the curtain may in other words be movable relative to the other end of the curtain, which other end may be fixed or may be moved simultaneously.

[0052] The control system may be configured, according to certain implementations, to move the entire curtain in a retracting direction, inter alia, by moving both ends of the curtain together (ie, simultaneously and similarly).

[0053] Such movement may be possible with the curtain in a retracted, partially retracted and / or fully extended position, but preferably is possible in any position.

[0054] The control system, according to an advantageous embodiment, may enable two different control modes of the optical device. - Deploy / Retract mode: In this mode, the effective surface of the curtain and its projected area on the working plane are adjusted by moving only one end of the curtain or by moving both ends relative to each other (generally in opposite directions). - Moving mode: in this mode the effective surface of the curtain remains constant, but the position of the entire curtain is adjusted by moving both ends of the curtain together, i.e. at the same time, in the same retraction direction and orientation, and by the same distance.

[0055] The displacement system for moving both ends of the curtain may in particular comprise a double transmission means respectively connected to the first end and to the second end of the curtain.

[0056] The control system may, for example, comprise at least a first and a second transmission system, each transmission system comprising an elongated flexible component movably mounted around at least two rotatable supports and defining at least one useful section between the supports, and at least one connecting element connecting an end of the curtain to the useful section. In such a configuration, the first end of the curtain is connected to the first transmission system and the second end of the curtain is connected to the second transmission system. Each transmission system is usually operable using the same actuator of the opto-mechanical system, which actuators may be activated manually or automatically (by a computer system) based on the results of measurements made by the sensors.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the elongated flexible components of at least one, and preferably both, transmission systems may be endless components such as belts or cables, typically mounted around pulleys or wheels.

[0058] The useful sections of both components may advantageously be substantially parallel to each other and to the retraction direction.

[0059] Advantageously, the control system may further comprise guiding means for guiding the curtain to move along at least one retraction direction of the curtain.

[0060] The deformable curtain or at least a part of the curtain may, according to an embodiment, be formed or comprised of a sheet, the upper surface of which is preferably entirely made of a reflective material, for example aluminum. Such an embodiment is advantageous as it allows for a simple optical device, which is easy to manufacture and does not require high precision in assembly or control. The deformable curtain, according to an advantageous embodiment, is a woven material made of interwoven threads and / or stripes, where some or all of the threads and / or stripes may be made of a reflective material, for example aluminum.

[0061] The curtain may, according to another embodiment, comprise a sheet and a number of reflective optical elements attached to the sheet, more particularly to the surface of the sheet facing the photovoltaic modules, the sheeting in such a case either having or not having a reflective upper surface as mentioned above.

[0062] The multiple reflective optical elements may illustratively be arranged in rows and / or columns, with or without substantial gaps between the reflective optical elements.

[0063] The reflective optical element may be deformable (e.g. foldable) or completely rigid. If the optical element is rigid, it may be of preferably small dimensions so as not to impede retraction and / or deployment of the curtain. Advantageously, the deformable optical element may be configured to be pleated to match the folds of the curtain itself (the pleats of the optical element may, for example, match the pleats of the curtain when folded).

[0064] The curtain can be configured to be essentially flat in the deployed configuration, and can function as a flat mirror if the top surface of the curtain is a reflective surface.

[0065] The curtain, according to alternative embodiments, can be configured to have a non-flat profile in the deployed configuration, for example a wavy, ridged, or jagged profile.

[0066] The opto-mechanical system may, according to another embodiment, comprise at least one optical device comprising a plurality of reflective optical elements, each of which is pivotable about at least one axis, and the control system is configured to manipulate the rotation of the optical elements, In such an embodiment, the amount of transmitted light provided to the crop and redirected towards the photovoltaic module is controlled by moving the optical elements about their respective rotational axes.

[0067] Preferably, at least one rotation axis of each optical element is parallel to the working plane. Even more preferably, the rotation axes of all optical elements of a defined optical arrangement are aligned with the working plane.

[0068] The axis of rotation of each optical element may, according to an embodiment, be located substantially at the center of the element such that substantially half of the element can be moved on either side of the axis of rotation.

[0069] The axis of rotation of each optical element may, according to another embodiment, be offset from the centre of the element, in particular arranged substantially at an end of the reflective optical element.

[0070] Advantageously, the optical element can be rotated so that the reflective surface of the optical element is substantially parallel to the transmitted light in one configuration of the optical device, and / or perpendicular to the transmitted light in another configuration of the optical device. The amount of transmitted light blocked by the optical element (or the apparent area of ​​the optical element that is "seen" by the transmitted light) can thus be effectively controlled. Advantageously, this embodiment redirects light more effectively towards the photovoltaic cell for a wider range of angles of incidence, thereby maximizing power generation.

[0071] The control system may further be configured to move the optical element in at least one lateral direction parallel to the actuation plane in a complementary manner.

[0072] The control system may be configured to manipulate the rotation and / or movement of each optical element individually. The control system may alternatively be configured to manipulate the rotation and / or movement of a plurality of optical elements collectively, preferably all optical elements of each optical arrangement collectively.

[0073] The optical element according to the invention, whether integrated with a retractable, deformable curtain, or adjustable by rotation about an axis of rotation, can take on a variety of shapes and sizes.

[0074] The reflective optical elements may, by way of example, be flat elongated elements (rigid or flexible), such as mirrors. This is advantageous as it simplifies manufacture.

[0075] The reflective optical element may, according to another embodiment, comprise at least two adjacent, angled planar surfaces, in particular reflective surfaces.

[0076] The reflective optical element can be designed, for example, as an elongated triangular prism. The triangular prism typically has two opposing facets that can reflect the transmitted light obliquely, so that the transmitted light with a small angle of incidence is reflected at a larger angle. This is advantageous when the sun is high above the agricultural system of the present invention, as it maximizes the amount of transmitted light that is redirected towards the photovoltaic cells.

[0077] According to yet another embodiment, the optical element may comprise a non-flat reflective surface, in particular a curved reflective surface, in particular a concave or convex reflective surface.

[0078] The optical element may be, for example, a portion of a cylinder or a paraboloid. More complex shapes are advantageous as they allow for light concentration and maximize the amount of transmitted light that is redirected towards the photovoltaic cell.

[0079] The reflective optical element may, according to another embodiment, have a spectrally selective reflectivity and / or transparency. In other words, the optical layer may be designed to reflect some wavelengths of light and transmit others. The optical element is preferably designed to transmit most of the light wavelengths useful for the crop (e.g., in the photosynthetically active radiation portion of the light spectrum) while reflecting most of the other wavelengths towards the semi-transparent photovoltaic module for power generation. The spectral selectivity of the optical element may be achieved by elements including, but not limited to, dichroic mirrors, band pass mirrors, long pass mirrors, short pass mirrors, dielectric films, stacks of two or more thin layers of dielectric materials, stacks of two or more thin layers of semiconductor materials, or metal layers.

[0080] According to a particular embodiment, the optical element can be designed to image the transmitted light on the rear side of the photovoltaic cells. In other words, the gap between the photovoltaic cells acts as an optical stop, and the optical element is designed as an "imaging optics" that can create an image of the gap on the rear side of the photovoltaic cells. This embodiment is advantageous because all transmitted light can be redirected efficiently to the photovoltaic cells without moving the optical element. In this embodiment, the optical device can be retracted or the optical element can be pivoted to be substantially parallel to the path of the transmitted light, thereby minimizing light blockage, allowing light to be transmitted to the crop.

[0081] Different reflective optical elements of an optical device may, according to an embodiment, have different shapes, different reflectivities and / or transmittances, and / or different spectral selectivities.

[0082] The pitch between two adjacent optical elements is, by way of example, equal to the pitch between two adjacent photovoltaic cells. Each optical element is thus equally spaced with respect to the adjacent gap. The pitch between two adjacent optical elements may alternatively be different from the pitch between two adjacent photovoltaic cells, in particular smaller than the inter-cell pitch.

[0083] According to a particular embodiment, each optical element has a maximum width measured in a direction parallel to the working plane, for example in the retraction direction, substantially equal to a width comprised between 0.8 and 1 times the pitch between two adjacent photovoltaic cells measured in the same direction, in particular the pitch between two adjacent photovoltaic cells. Each optical element may alternatively have a maximum width measured in a direction parallel to the working plane, for example in the retraction direction, that is smaller than the width of a photovoltaic cell or the width of a gap.

[0084] The control system may, according to an advantageous embodiment, further comprise distance adjustment means for adjusting the distance between the photovoltaic module and the optical device in a transverse direction substantially perpendicular to the working plane.

[0085] The distance adjustment means may for example comprise a movement system for moving the optical device laterally.

[0086] The optical element can according to an advantageous embodiment move at least in a lateral direction substantially parallel to the working plane, and the optical device can move generally along a transverse direction, preferably perpendicular to the working plane and thus perpendicular to the lateral direction. The control system can in an embodiment coordinate both movements. This advantageously allows to select at what distance the optical device blocks the transmitted light, thereby redirecting a larger portion of the transmitted light towards the photovoltaic cells.

[0087] The opto-mechanical system may, according to certain implementations, comprise at least two optical devices.

[0088] The optical devices can be positioned one above the other, in different working planes, which is advantageous as it allows finer control of light transmission and redirection since transmitted light can be blocked and managed by both optical devices.

[0089] As an example, an optical device in one working plane can comprise, for example, a deformable curtain as previously described, and an optical device in another working plane can comprise a number of pivotable reflective optical elements. According to another example, two deformable curtains can be arranged one above the other in different working planes.

[0090] The optical device may additionally or alternatively comprise at least two deformable curtains arranged in the same working plane.

[0091] More specifically, multiple deformable curtains arranged in the same plane may have paths that at least partially coincide. The curtains may illustratively be arranged in the same plane and deployed while being retractable at two opposite ends. The two curtains may more specifically have their (fixed) proximal ends facing each other in the retraction direction, the distal ends coming closer together when one or both curtains are deployed. During operation, one curtain at a time may be deployed or the curtains may be partially deployed simultaneously, advantageously maintaining a gap between the curtains. The control system may in this case be advantageously configured to adjust the position and / or width of the gap by simultaneously controlling the retraction or deployment of one curtain, the other curtain or both curtains.

[0092] The two or more distinct working planes of the system are preferably, but not necessarily, substantially parallel to each other.

[0093] At least two curtains, arranged in the same or different working planes of the system, can according to advantageous embodiments have different optical properties: the curtains can in particular integrate different optical elements realizing different optical functions.

[0094] The reflective surface of each curtain of the system can have a different shape or structure, according to the example. Each curtain can comprise, for example, a reflective elongated triangular prism with a different angle so that the transmitted light can be redirected in two different directions depending on whether the first optical curtain or the second optical curtain is deployed. This is advantageous because the opto-mechanical system of the present invention can redirect the transmitted light towards the photovoltaic cells with high efficiency, thereby maximizing the range of incident angles.

[0095] Alternatively or complementary, the curtains can have different reflectances and transmittances, allowing finer control of the amount of light transmitted to the crop and redirected towards the photovoltaic modules for generating electricity. For example, a first optical curtain can provide lower reflectance and higher transmittance, while a second curtain can provide higher reflectance and lower transmittance. Thus, by deploying the first curtain, the second curtain, both, or neither, four different levels of reflectance and transmittance are achieved by the control system, allowing the system to precisely tune the light required for the crop.

[0096] However, as an alternative, at least two of the curtains may be identical.

[0097] The photovoltaic cells of the translucent photovoltaic module are bifacial cells, capable of converting light energy redirected by an optical device to the rear side of the module. The opto-mechanical system is compatible with any photovoltaic cell technology, apart from this requirement. The photovoltaic cells are preferably selected among high efficiency cell technologies, typically monocrystalline cell technologies such as PERC, PERT, TOPCON, heterojunction, or iBC, to maximize energy production. The cells can also be selected from multijunction cells made of III-V materials, or tandem cells such as crystalline silicon combined with perovskites. However, the cells can also be selected from less efficient and cheaper cell technologies such as amorphous silicon, CIGS, organic cells, dye-sensitized cells, and kesterite.

[0098] The photovoltaic cells are in preferred embodiments half-cells, quarter-cells or fifth-cells, in other words photovoltaic cells cut in half, quarter or fifth along one dimension. The resulting cells have a reduced area and a more elongated shape. This is advantageous as it allows for a translucent module with more uniform light transmission, smaller cell sections and smaller gaps between cell sections, thus creating a finer grid pattern of shade and light.

[0099] The photovoltaic cells of each photovoltaic module may be interconnected in one or more series and / or parallel connections, depending on the example, to achieve a photovoltaic module with higher output voltage and / or output current.

[0100] The translucent photovoltaic module may include a front plane and a back plane stacked on top of the bifacial photovoltaic cell and directly below the bifacial photovoltaic cell, respectively.

[0101] The front and back planes are generally made of clear or translucent material, which provides adequate encapsulation and protection for the photovoltaic cells while ensuring a high degree of light transmission.

[0102] The front plane, the back plane, or both, may be made of tempered or chemically hardened glass, which advantageously ensures good resistance of the photovoltaic module to severe weather events such as hail, snow, or high winds.

[0103] The front plane, the rear plane, or both may alternatively be made of a polymer. This is advantageous as it minimizes the weight of the photovoltaic module for installation on a lightweight structure (such as a plastic tunnel structure). This is further advantageous as it reduces the stiffness of the module and allows the module to bend to closely match the shape of a support structure having a substantially round shape.

[0104] According to an advantageous embodiment, the front plane is made of tempered or chemically hardened glass and the rear plane is made of a polymer sheet, which is advantageous since it reduces the weight of the photovoltaic module while still ensuring robustness against severe weather events on the front side of the module.

[0105] The translucent photovoltaic module may, according to an embodiment, comprise optical means on the front and / or rear planes of the translucent photovoltaic module for diffusing incident sunlight or concentrating incident sunlight towards at least one optical element.

[0106] The optical means may be integrated into or attached to the front and / or rear plane.

[0107] At least one of the front and rear planes illustratively has diffusing properties. At least one of the front and rear planes can specifically carry or integrate at least one diffusing optical element. This is advantageous as it ensures more uniform illumination of the crops grown under the agricultural system of the present invention. Diffused light does not create shadows and illuminates the leaves more uniformly, thus increasing the photosynthetic yield.

[0108] The front plane, the back plane, or both may illustratively be made of a diffusing glass sheet or a diffusing polymer sheet.

[0109] According to another embodiment, the translucent photovoltaic module may comprise optical means on the front and / or rear plane of the translucent photovoltaic module for focusing incident sunlight towards a specific area of ​​the optical device.

[0110] The front plane, the rear plane, or both, depending on the example, may carry or incorporate at least one refractive optical element, which in particular may substantially redirect and focus incident light.

[0111] A refractive optical element is, for example, a convex cylindrical lens or a cylindrical Fresnel lens. Such lenses can generate a line focus in one dimension. This is advantageous because they selectively redirect a portion of the incident light and transmit the transmitted light in a predetermined direction, such as to direct the transmitted light toward a particular location or optical element on the optical device.

[0112] According to yet another embodiment, the front plane, the rear plane, or both, can carry or integrate at least one diffractive optical element, in particular a plurality of diffractive optical elements, for example a diffractive network. Diffractive optical elements can redirect and focus incident light having a particular angle of incidence and wavelength. Diffractive optical elements can provide optical functions based on very thin patterned structures.

[0113] The optical elements can be formed in or on the front and / or back planes by a variety of high throughput industrial processes such as glass rolling, polymer molding, lamination of patterned polymer structures onto a glass sheet, or refractive index modification of a photosensitive polymer layer laminated onto a glass sheet.

[0114] The front plane, the back plane, or both, according to yet another example, can carry or be equipped with light-shifting structures that can, for example, shift the wavelength of incident light, and more specifically, absorb wavelength ranges that are not useful for photosynthesis (such as the green or ultraviolet spectrum) and re-emit light at wavelengths that are useful for photosynthesis, such as the red or blue spectrum.

[0115] The control system in an embodiment comprises at least one actuator, preferably an electric actuator, and a transmission system arranged such that actuation of the actuator results in a movement or rotation of an optical element of the optical device.

[0116] The transmission can be based, for example, on a cable and pulley system or a push-pull type system with transmission rods.

[0117] The control system comprises in a preferred embodiment at least one sensor and a computer system configured to receive signals provided by the sensor and to control the optical device (via actuators, if any) based on such signals in response to a feedback loop. The sensor is typically configured to measure or otherwise determine at least one parameter representative of environmental conditions below or around the opto-mechanical system or the agricultural equipment and / or the electricity production of the photovoltaic module. The sensor implemented in the feedback loop may be a light sensor, a photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a wind sensor, a sap flow sensor, a leaf temperature sensor, a power sensor, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0118] The control system is advantageously centralized, and more particularly arranged to operate multiple optical devices or multiple optical elements simultaneously, which is advantageous as it minimizes the number of parts, thereby reducing the cost of the optomechanical system of the present invention.

[0119] The invention further relates to an agricultural installation comprising a support structure arranged above a crop and at least one opto-mechanical system as defined above mounted on the support structure.

[0120] The opto-mechanical system according to the present invention can be easily integrated into conventional agricultural structures such as greenhouses or plastic tunnels.

[0121] The opto-mechanical system is compatible with a variety of mounting systems and support structures: it can be easily integrated into standard greenhouse roof systems, such as the Venlo type, or it can be mounted to lower, lighter structures, such as those used to support plastic tunnels, plastic greenhouses, or typical ground-mounted solar power structures.

[0122] The support structure may comprise at least one roof section, and preferably at least two angled roof sections, each of which may be inclined at an angle of preferably 5 to 30 degrees relative to the horizontal.

[0123] Multiple photovoltaic modules can be provided on each roof section to maximize photovoltaic module coverage per unit ground area, thereby maximizing energy production.

[0124] The lower part of the photovoltaic module may preferably be between 2 and 4 metres above ground level, i.e. high enough to leave sufficient space for man and machine agricultural work as well as for plants growing below.

[0125] Each roof section may be oriented substantially in an east, west, south, or north direction.

[0126] When roof sections face in different directions, it may be advantageous to adjust the cell-to-void ratio of the photovoltaic modules per roof section depending on the orientation of the roof section. As an illustration, a roof section facing east (morning sun) can have proportionately more voids than a roof section facing west (evening sun), resulting in more efficient photosynthesis in the morning.

[0127] The at least two roof sections may be arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically, with one roof section having a greater angle of inclination.

[0128] The two opposing roof sections may face substantially east and west, respectively, or substantially south and north, respectively. In such a final configuration, photovoltaic modules are preferably arranged only on the south-facing roof section, in order to minimize the average angle of incidence of sunlight on the photovoltaic modules throughout the year, and thus maximize the energy production per photovoltaic module. In this embodiment, the north-facing roof section of the support structure is advantageously covered with a transparent material, such as a sheet of tempered glass or polymer, to ensure adequate protection of the crops against rain, hail, snow and wind. The roof is preferably asymmetric in this embodiment, with the north-facing roof section having a larger angle of inclination, so as to maximize the area of ​​the south-facing roof section, and thus the roof area covered by the photovoltaic modules. Furthermore, there may be only a roof section facing south, and no north-facing roof section.

[0129] The present invention further relates to a method for managing an agricultural installation as defined above, said method comprising at least - determining at least one parameter representative of the environmental conditions below or around the at least one opto-mechanical system and / or the electricity production of at least one photovoltaic module of the opto-mechanical system; - actuating at least one optical device of the optomechanical system in response to the parameter. Includes.

[0130] Advantageously, the management method includes regulating light transmission to and power generation of the crop to maximize power generation from excess solar radiation while transmitting the amount of light required by the crop during the growing and harvesting seasons and protecting the crop from excess sun and temperature.

[0131] The at least one optical device may, according to a preferred embodiment, comprise at least one deformable curtain, and the actuating step may in this case comprise a step of at least partially retracting or deploying the deformable curtain in a retracting direction.

[0132] Advantageously, the actuating step may alternatively or additionally comprise the step of moving the entire deformable curtain in a retracted direction.

[0133] The actuating step may, according to a particularly advantageous embodiment, include both retracting or deploying and overall movement of the deformable curtain in a retracting direction to optimize the amount of direct light reaching the crops while reducing the temperature.

[0134] The determining step may, in an embodiment, include determining a first parameter representative of a temperature in the crop's environment and a second parameter representative of an amount of direct light falling on the crop, and operating the optical device to minimize the first parameter and maximize the second parameter. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0135] [Figure 1A] 1 is a side view diagrammatically illustrating an agricultural installation according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with an optical device in a deployed position; [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic side view of an agricultural installation according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with an optical device in an intermediate position; [Figure 1C] 1 is a side view diagrammatically illustrating an agricultural installation according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with the optical device in a retracted position; [Diagram 2] FIG. 1C is a top view of region II identified in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an agricultural installation equipped with an opto-mechanical system according to a second embodiment of the invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6A] 6C is a schematic side view of an opto-mechanical system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, in which the optical device in a deployed position interacts with sunlight having a different angle of incidence than in FIG. 6B. [Figure 6B] 6B is a schematic side view of an opto-mechanical system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, in which the optical device in a deployed position interacts with sunlight having a different angle of incidence than in FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] 13 is a schematic side view of an opto-mechanical system according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, with the optical device in a retracted position; FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a side view of an agricultural equipment equipped with an optical-mechanical system according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a side view of an agricultural equipment according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a side view of an agricultural equipment according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a side view of an agricultural equipment according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 12A] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12B] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13A] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13B] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14A] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14B] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14C] FIG. 23 shows a schematic diagram of an opto-mechanical system according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a curtain displacement system, for example implementing the thirteenth embodiment of FIGS. 14A to 14C. [Figure 15B]FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a curtain displacement system, for example implementing the thirteenth embodiment of FIGS. 14A to 14C. [Figure 15C] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a curtain displacement system, for example implementing the thirteenth embodiment of FIGS. 14A to 14C. [Figure 15D] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a curtain displacement system, for example implementing the thirteenth embodiment of FIGS. 14A to 14C. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0136] FIG. 1A shows an agricultural installation 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention, comprising a support structure 2 arranged above a crop C and an opto-mechanical system 10 mounted on the support structure 2 for managing incident solar radiation 101 in an optimized manner for producing energy and / or irradiating the crop C, as described hereinafter.

[0137] The support structure 2 comprises in the illustrated embodiment a support side wall or beam 3a, 3b and a roof structure 4 with two opposing roof sections 5a, 5b arranged symmetrically and each inclined by an angle αa, αb comprised between 5 and 30 degrees relative to the horizontal. The height of the support side walls or beams 3a, 3b shall be sufficient to leave sufficient space for plants to be grown under the roof sections 5a, 5b, as well as for agricultural work by humans and machines, for example between 2 and 4 meters. The illustrated support structure 2 shall not be interpreted as being limiting, and any other adapted structure may be envisaged, such as a structure with a single roof section, an asymmetric roof section, a flat roof section or three or more adjacent roof sections.

[0138] The optical-mechanical system 10, in the illustrated example, comprises a group 20 of multiple photovoltaic modules 23 distributed on the roof 4, here a first set 21 of coplanar modules 23 on the left roof section 5a and a second set 22 of coplanar modules 23 on the right roof section 5b, to maximize the coverage of the photovoltaic modules per unit surface area and thus maximize energy production.

[0139] A set of photovoltaic modules is to be understood in this context as one module or several adjacent coplanar photovoltaic modules. A group of photovoltaic modules may include one or several sets of modules and refers to one or several modules of an opto-mechanical system according to the invention.

[0140] The photovoltaic module 23 is according to the invention a semi-transparent photovoltaic module. A semi-transparent photovoltaic module 23 is to be understood in this context as a module comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells 30 arranged in rows and columns in the general plane of the module, with gaps 32 between the rows, between the columns or both, in order to allow at least a part of the sunlight incident on the front side 24 of the module to be transmitted through the gaps 32. The semi-transparent photovoltaic module 23 is shown diagrammatically in Figs. 1A to 1C, in particular the size or number of cells 30 per module is not representative. Fig. 2 is a top view showing more precisely a possible arrangement of the photovoltaic cells 30 in the module 23 of the first set 21. The module has a typically rectangular outline as shown, with X number of cells 30 arranged in n columns in a vertical direction N and m rows in a horizontal direction M. The cells 30 are arranged in a regular distribution in each row and in each column, with the spaces between two adjacent cells being equal or different in the rows and columns. Between each pair of adjacent rows or columns of cells 30 there are formed continuous linear gaps 32 which extend in both the vertical direction N and the horizontal direction M in a grid pattern.

[0141] Typically, less than 50% of the surface of each translucent photovoltaic module 23 is covered with photovoltaic cells 30. Conversely, advantageously, at least 50% of the surface of each translucent photovoltaic module 23 is covered with gaps 32, i.e., open or made of a material adapted to transmit incident light, preferably with a light transmittance of 80% or more.

[0142] According to the invention, the photovoltaic cells 30 of each translucent photovoltaic module 23 are bifacial cells, i.e. each bifacial cell comprises an active front side 30a capable of collecting and converting the light energy incident on the front side 24 of the module 23 into electrical energy, and an active back side 30b capable of collecting and converting the light energy incident on the rear side 26 of the module 23 into electrical energy. Such cells 30 are preferably selected from among high efficiency cell technologies, typically monocrystalline cell technologies such as PERC, PERT, TOPCON, heterojunction or iBC. The cells may according to advantageous embodiments be half, quarter or fifth cells, i.e. cells cut in half, quarter or fifth along one dimension.

[0143] The photovoltaic cells 30 are typically encapsulated between a front plane 34 and a back plane 36 of each module 23, which are typically planar sheets generally made of a clear or light-transmitting material such as tempered or chemically hardened glass or polymer.

[0144] The opto-mechanical system 10 further comprises an optical device 40 in an operating plane P located behind the translucent photovoltaic modules 23 in the propagation direction of the sunlight 101. The optical device 40 in the example extends under both roof sections 5a, 5b and the operating plane P is horizontal, so that it makes an angle β=αa=αb with each set 21, 22 of photovoltaic modules 23. Alternatively, one optical device may be associated with one module or one set of coplanar modules and / or the operating plane P may be parallel to the modules 23 (see for example the arrangement of FIG. 8 described hereinafter).

[0145] The optical device 40 comprises in the embodiment shown a deformable curtain 41, here in the form of a continuous flexible sheet 43 made of a partly light-transmitting and partly reflective material, for example a woven material made of interwoven threads and / or stripes, some or all of the threads and / or stripes being made of a reflective material, for example aluminium. In such a case the density of the reflective threads and stripes determines the overall transparency of the sheet. The flexible sheet may according to another embodiment be made of a monolithic material with adapted optical properties.

[0146] The sheet 43, in the illustrative example, itself forms a reflective optical element with the top surface 43a of the sheet being the reflective surface. Incident sunlight 101 that penetrates the gaps 32 of the photovoltaic modules 23 and strikes the curtain 41 is partially transmitted downwards through the curtain 41 to illuminate the crops C (103) and is partially reflected back towards the rear side 26 of the photovoltaic modules 23 and thus towards the rear surface of the bifacial photovoltaic cells 30.

[0147] 1A shows the curtain 41 in a fully deployed configuration. In this configuration, the sheet 43 is essentially flat. Moreover, the projected area S of the flexible sheet 41 on an actuation plane P is at least substantially equal to, and preferably greater than, the total projected area in the same plane P of the multiple modules 23 associated therewith for managing light.

[0148] The optical device 40 is associated with a control system 60 which, according to the invention, is configured to change the position or configuration of the optical device to adjust the total projected area S on the working plane P of the reflective optical element, here the curtain 41.

[0149] The control system 60 is configured in this first embodiment to reversibly retract or deploy the deformable curtain 41 at least partially in a retracted direction.

[0150] Flexible sheet 41 may be pre-formed, for example pre-pleated, to facilitate deformation of the sheet.

[0151] In the following description, - transverse direction Z perpendicular to the working plane P, a lateral direction X, i.e. a retraction direction, perpendicular to the transverse direction Z and in which the dimensions of the or each reflecting optical element are adjustable by actuation of the control system 60; - the transverse direction Z and the longitudinal direction Y perpendicular to the transverse direction X is defined.

[0152] Further, with reference to the curtain 41 of the first embodiment, the proximal or first end 41a is the lateral end of the curtain that remains substantially fixed upon operation of the optical device 40, and the distal or second end 41b of the curtain corresponds to the end that moves upon retraction or deployment.

[0153] However, this device should not be construed as limiting, and the present invention also encompasses embodiments in which both the first end and the second end are movable, for example, as described with reference to Figures 14A to 14C.

[0154] In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 60 is configured to reversibly retract and deploy the curtain 41 laterally, i.e. in the retraction direction X, and includes a folding system 70 that folds the flexible sheet 41 towards the proximal end 41 a of the sheet, and an actuator 62 that controls the folding system 70.

[0155] The folding system 70, as shown in Figure 2, typically comprises a transmission system 72 which, upon actuation of the actuator 62, moves the distal end 41b of the curtain 41 towards the proximal end 41a of the curtain. The transmission system may, for example, comprise a push-pull type system with a transmission rod or tine 73 attached to the distal end 41b of the curtain 41 and driven to move, for example, by a rotating pinion 74. According to an alternative embodiment, the transmission system may be based on a cable and pulley system of the kind described with reference to Figures 15A to 15D or the like.

[0156] Furthermore, a guidance system 76, for example comprising one or more steel cables 77 and corresponding guides 78, may serve to guide the movement of the curtain 41 in the retraction direction X.

[0157] The actuator 62 of the control system 60 may be manually operated, and if so, is preferably an electrically powered actuator.

[0158] However, the actuator 62 is automatically operated in the illustrated preferred embodiment. The control system 60 is more specifically a self-actuated system operating according to a feedback loop. The system 60 comprises a computer system 63 in communication with at least one sensor 64, the computer system 63 being configured to operate the actuator 62 according to parameters determined by the sensor 64. The feedback loop can provide information about the environmental conditions below or around the agricultural installation and / or the electricity production of the photovoltaic modules 23, and the control system 60 can manage the optical device according to this information. The sensor 64 can be, for example, a light sensor, a photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a wind sensor, a sap flow sensor, a leaf temperature sensor, a power sensor, a voltage sensor, a current sensor.

[0159] 1B and 2 show the flexible curtain 41 in a semi-retracted configuration, and FIG. 1C shows the flexible curtain 41 in a fully retracted configuration, where the curtain is folded in a concertina-like configuration. In the retracted configuration of the curtain, the projected area S of the curtain 41 on the working plane P is very small, preferably substantially zero, so that the curtain no longer obstructs the transmitted sunlight 102, which is transmitted to the crop C below the system 10.

[0160] For example, in agricultural applications, when maximum light transmission is required by the crops C, the curtains 41 can be partially or fully retracted to minimize obstruction and shading of the transmitted light 102. Conversely, when it is desired to maximize power generation, the curtains 41 can be deployed to maximize the amount of light (104) reflected toward the photovoltaic modules.

[0161] 3 and 4 show particular configurations of a translucent photovoltaic module 23 with a front plane 34, a back plane 36, or both, that have advantageous optical properties.

[0162] 3 shows an opto-mechanical system 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention, in which each translucent photovoltaic module 23 comprises a front plane 34 and a rear plane 36, both of which have diffusing properties that diffuse the sunlight incident thereon. This is advantageous as it ensures more uniform illumination of the crops grown beneath the opto-mechanical system of the invention. The diffused light 102' emitted from the photovoltaic modules 23 does not cast shadows and illuminates the leaves of the crops C more uniformly, thereby increasing the photosynthetic yield.

[0163] The front plane 34, the back plane 36, or both may illustratively be made of a diffusing glass sheet or a diffusing polymer sheet.

[0164] FIG. 4 shows an opto-mechanical system 10 according to a third embodiment, in which the rear plane 36 of a translucent photovoltaic module 23 carries a refractive optical element 38 capable of substantially redirecting and focusing incident light.

[0165] Advantageously, each refractive optical element 38 faces a gap 32 between two photovoltaic cells 30. The refractive optical elements 38 are, for example, convex cylindrical lenses or cylindrical Fresnel lenses. Such lenses are capable of generating a line focus in one dimension. This is advantageous as it selectively redirects a portion of the incident light 101 and the transmitted light 102'' in a predefined direction, towards a specific location of the optical device.

[0166] According to another example (not shown), the rear plane 36 can carry or be equipped with at least one diffractive optical element, in particular a plurality of diffractive optical elements, for example a diffractive network. Diffractive optical elements can redirect and focus incident light having a particular angle of incidence and wavelength. Diffractive optical elements can provide optical functions based on very thin patterned structures.

[0167] 5 shows an optical device 40 according to a further embodiment of the invention, in which the optical device 40 comprises a deformable curtain 41 formed of a flexible sheet 44 with a plurality of reflective optical elements 45 mounted on an upper surface 44a of the sheet, although the sheet itself does not have any light reflective properties.

[0168] In the illustrated embodiment, the optical element 45 is designed as an elongated triangular prism with two opposing facets 45a, 45b, each capable of reflecting transmitted light obliquely, so that transmitted light with a small angle of incidence is reflected at a larger angle.

[0169] The optical element 45 is in this example a rigid element, in particular a hard element made for example of a polymer material.

[0170] The multiple reflective optical elements 45 may be arranged in rows and / or columns on the supporting sheet 44, as shown in FIG. 5, with significant gaps between the reflective optical elements, or may be juxtaposed with no gaps between them.

[0171] The illustrated embodiment is not limiting, and the optical elements 45 mounted on the flexible sheet 44 may have any other suitable configuration or shape. The optical elements 45 that are not rigid and are deformable may also be deformable, in particular foldable. In such a case, when folded, the pleats of the optical elements 45 may match the pleats of the deformable substrate 44. Furthermore, the sheet 44 may be mounted with different optical elements, in particular elements having different optical properties, such as different reflectivities and / or transmittances or different tilt angles. Furthermore, the flexible sheet 44 itself may have reflective properties, with part or all of the upper surface 44a of the flexible sheet being made of a reflective material.

[0172] 6A-6C show a fifth embodiment of the invention in which an optical device 40 is formed of a deformable curtain 41 having, in an unfolded configuration (FIGS. 6A and 6B), raised contours that form a number of adjacent, angled planes.

[0173] The curtain 41 is in the particular embodiment shown formed of alternating portions or regions 46, 47 of different flexible materials, adjacent portions being linked to one another by articulating means 48, e.g. pivoting rods. The curtain 41 is illustratively formed of reflective portions 46 made of flexible sheet material with upper reflective surfaces 46a, alternating with large mesh woven bands or perforated flexible sheets 47. The advantage of the non-flat profile of the curtain 41 is the opportunity to adjust the angle of inclination of the reflective surfaces 46a by unfolding the curtain 41 more or less.

[0174] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, depending on the angle of incidence of the incoming sunlight 101, the light 102 transmitted through the photovoltaic module 23 may be blocked by the reflective surface of the reflective portion 46 (for angle of incidence γ1 in Figure 6A) and reflected back towards the cells 30 (104), or may be blocked by the open portion 47 (for angle of incidence γ2 in Figure 6B) and transmitted further down the system (103). Figure 6C shows the retracted configuration of the curtain 41.

[0175] This embodiment is also not limiting, and the deformable curtain may be formed of multiple rigid sections that are movably linked together, or alternating rigid and flexible sections. Furthermore, the profile of the optical device in the deployed position may vary, such as flat, wavy, and / or jagged.

[0176] 7 shows a schematic representation of an opto-mechanical system according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, in which an optical device 40 is formed of a deformable curtain 41 arranged to be essentially flat in an unfolded configuration and comprises alternating regions or stripes 46, 47 having different optical properties, in particular different reflectivities. The reflective regions 46 are, in a particular example, regularly alternating with more transparent regions 47, the pitch between two adjacent regions being equal to half the pitch between adjacent photovoltaic cells 30 (i.e. the pitch between two adjacent similar regions is equal to the pitch between adjacent photovoltaic cells 30). The reflective regions 46 and the transparent regions 47 may or may not be of the same width.

[0177] For a given overall configuration of the curtain, the control system 60 can be advantageously configured to make fine adjustments to the position of the curtain 41 by moving the curtain 41 a distance equal to the pitch between two photovoltaic cells 30 of the photovoltaic module 23. In a first position (shown in FIG. 7 ), a reflective area 46 of the curtain 41 can be positioned opposite the gap 32 to maximize the amount of transmitted light reflected back towards the photovoltaic cells 30. In a second position, a more transparent area 47 can be positioned opposite the gap 32 to maximize the amount of light transmitted below the system 10, for example to crops in an agricultural installation.

[0178] The same fine adjustment of the position of the curtain 41 can also be envisaged for other types of curtains, for example as described with reference to FIG. 5 or FIGS. 6A to 6C.

[0179] Folding and retracting such curtains is not limiting and Figure 8 shows diagrammatically an installation 1 according to a seventh embodiment, comprising two similar optical-mechanical systems 10a, 10b for managing light 101 entering each roof section 5a, 5b of the support structure 2 of the installation 1.

[0180] Here, each opto-mechanical system 10a, 10b comprises an optical device 40, e.g. in the form of a deformable curtain 41 of the type previously described, movable in an actuation plane Pa, Pb respectively, and a control system 60 comprising a winding system 80 for winding up the curtain 41.

[0181] The winding system 80, in the illustrated example, comprises a roller 82 around which the curtain 41 is wound in the curtain's retracted configuration.

[0182] The control system 60 may further comprise guiding means (not shown) similar to those described with reference to FIG. 2 for guiding the movement of the curtain 41 along the retraction direction of the curtain.

[0183] The roller 82 is adapted to rotate in a retracting or extending direction upon actuation of the actuator 62 (by the computer system 63, inter alia, in response to parameters measured by the sensor 64).

[0184] 8 further illustrates that the working plane Pa, Pb of the optical device 40 may also be substantially parallel to the translucent photovoltaic module 23 with which it is associated. Such a configuration may be advantageous as a large portion of the transmitted light may be blocked by the optical device 40 and the light redirected by the optical device 40 may more uniformly illuminate the rear side of the photovoltaic module 23.

[0185] Advantageously, the control system 60 comprises a distance adjustment system 66 for adjusting the distance d between the photovoltaic module 23 and the optical device 40 in the transverse direction Z, i.e. perpendicular to the working plane P, regardless of whether the working plane P is parallel to the photovoltaic module 23 or parallel to the ground. Such a distance adjustment system is shown in Figure 9. This is advantageous because it increases the amount of light that can be redirected towards the rear side 30b of the photovoltaic cell 30 for a certain light incidence angle.

[0186] FIG. 10 shows an agricultural installation 1 comprising a number of optical-mechanical systems 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention, where each optical device 40 associated with a group of photovoltaic modules 23 comprises two deformable curtains 41, 42.

[0187] Both curtains 41 and 42 are respectively in the same working plane P and are retractable and deployable in a corresponding path in the working plane P. The proximal end 41a of the first curtain 41 is on a first side of the group 20 of photovoltaic modules 23 and the proximal end 42a of the second curtain 42 is on a second side of the group of modules 23. The first curtain 41 has a distal end 41b adjacent to the proximal end 42a of the second curtain 42 when the first curtain is in the deployed configuration and vice versa when the second curtain is in the deployed configuration. In this way, the first curtain 41 can be fully deployed when the second curtain 42 is fully retracted and vice versa.

[0188] The two curtains 41, 42 may have different optical properties. For example, both curtains 41, 42 may be provided with optical elements having different shapes or structures. Each curtain 41, 42 may illustratively comprise a reflective elongated triangular prism with different angles so that the transmitted light can be redirected in two different directions depending on whether the first curtain or the second curtain is deployed. This is advantageous because the opto-mechanical system of the present invention can redirect the transmitted light towards the photovoltaic cells with high efficiency, thereby maximizing the range of incident angles.

[0189] Alternatively or complementary, the optical elements of the two curtains 41, 42 may have different reflectances and transmittances, allowing finer control of the amount of light transmitted to the crops C and redirected towards the photovoltaic modules 23 for power generation. For example, the first curtain 41 may provide a lower reflectance and a higher transmittance, while the second curtain 42 may provide a higher reflectance and a lower transmittance.

[0190] According to an embodiment, only one curtain 41, 42 may be deployed at a time.

[0191] In this manner, three different configurations of optical device 40 are achieved by deploying the first curtain, deploying the second curtain, or not deploying either curtain.

[0192] The optical device 40 may additionally be configured such that the curtains 41, 42 are partially deployed simultaneously, advantageously maintaining a lateral gap 49 between the curtains. The control system 60 may then be configured to adjust the position and / or width of the gap 49 by controlling one, the other or both curtains 41, 42 simultaneously. The width v of the gap 49 is the distance between the respective distal ends 41b, 42b of both curtains 41, 42 facing each other in the lateral direction X.

[0193] Although the optical device is illustrated with only two curtains, the number of curtains should not be considered limiting.

[0194] FIG. 11 shows an agricultural equipment comprising a plurality of opto-mechanical systems 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention, each comprising a plurality of optical devices configured to interact with the same group 20 of photovoltaic modules 23.

[0195] In the embodiment of Fig. 11, two optical devices 40, 50 are arranged in different working planes P1, P2 below each group 20 of photovoltaic modules 23. Each optical device 40, 50 illustratively comprises a deformable curtain 41, 51 of the type previously described, but this is not limiting and other optical devices according to the invention can also be envisaged.

[0196] Both working planes P1, P2 are preferably, but not exclusively, substantially parallel to each other. Both optical devices 40, 50 preferably have different optical properties, i.e. the optical elements of the optical devices have different shapes or structures and / or have different reflectivities and / or transmittances. However, alternatively, at least two optical devices 40, 50 may be identical.

[0197] Here, four distinct levels of reflectivity and transparency are provided for each optical-mechanical system 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d by deploying the first curtain 41, the second optical curtain 51, both, or neither.

[0198] 12A and 12B show an opto-mechanical system 10 according to a further embodiment of the invention. The optical arrangement 40 of the opto-mechanical system 10 is here formed of a plurality of separate reflective optical elements 90 arranged in an actuation plane P, advantageously in a plane parallel to the photovoltaic modules 23, the reflective optical elements 90 being preferably aligned along one or more rows and / or columns.

[0199] Each reflective optical element 90 has a reflective surface 90a and is pivotally mounted about an axis 92 so that the inclination of the reflective surface 90a relative to the working plane P can be adjusted, thereby controlling the amount of transmitted light provided to the crop C and the amount of transmitted light redirected towards the solar power generation module 23.

[0200] The control system 60 is configured to manipulate the rotation of the optical element 90 about an axis of rotation 92. The control system 60 may also be configured to move the optical element 90 in a lateral direction X and / or a transverse direction Z, as shown in FIG.

[0201] The control system 60 may be configured to individually manipulate the rotation and / or movement of each optical element 90. The control system 60 may alternatively be configured to manipulate the rotation and / or movement of a plurality of optical elements 90 collectively, preferably all of the optical elements 90 of each optical arrangement 40 collectively.

[0202] Each optical element 90 is advantageously a thin element, for example a flat or substantially flat blade. The optical element 90 has a maximum dimension L in a first direction, in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis 92 of the optical element, which maximum dimension is much larger than the vertical dimension l of the optical element, preferably at least twice as large, more preferably at least ten times larger. Each optical element 90 is, in the particular example shown, a flat elongated mirror.

[0203] The rotation axis 92 of each optical element 90 is preferably parallel to the working plane P and parallel to the longitudinal direction N of the gap 32 of the photovoltaic module 23 .

[0204] The axis of rotation 92 is, in the illustrated embodiment, substantially located in the center of the optical element 90 and facing the gap 32 of the photovoltaic module 23 .

[0205] Furthermore, in this particular example, the maximum width L of each optical element 90 measured in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation 92 is less than the width W of the gap 32 measured in the same plane in the lateral direction X.

[0206] Advantageously, the optical element 90 can be rotated substantially 90° so that the reflective surface of the optical element is substantially parallel to the transmitted light 102 in one configuration of the optical device 40 and perpendicular to the transmitted light 102 in another configuration of the optical device. The orientation of the or each optical element 90 can also be more finely adjusted depending on the angle of incidence of the sunlight, for example to focus the reflected light towards the cell. For example, Figures 12A and 12B show the same opto-mechanical system 10 at different angles of incidence of the sunlight (γ1 in Figure 12A and γ2 in Figure 12B), where the orientation of the optical element 90 has been modified so that the reflected light continues to be focused towards the cell.

[0207] The amount of transmitted light blocked by optical element 90 (or the apparent area of ​​the optical element that is "seen" by the transmitted light) can thus be effectively controlled. This embodiment is advantageous because it more effectively redirects light towards the photovoltaic cells for a wider range of incident angles, thereby maximizing power generation.

[0208] The shape or optical properties of each optical element 90, or the manner in which the optical elements are mounted on the axis of rotation, can be tailored to suit particular needs.

[0209] 13A and 13B show another possible optical device 40 that includes a plurality of pivotable optical elements 94 with non-flat reflective surfaces 94a.

[0210] Each optical element 94 has a parabolic shape in this example with a concave reflective surface 94a.

[0211] In such an embodiment, as shown in the figures, the rotation axis 96 of the optical element is advantageously offset from the center of at least one optical element 94. The rotation axis can specifically be located substantially at the end of the optical element 94, facing one photovoltaic cell 30. As shown in FIG. 13A, in the deployed configuration of the optical device 40, the reflective surface 94a extends substantially parallel to the working plane P, and a maximum amount of light is reflected by the optical element 94. The tilt angle of the optical element 94 can be adjusted to optimize the amount of reflected light that strikes the cell. As shown in FIG. 13B, in the retracted configuration of the optical device 40, the reflective surface 94a is substantially perpendicular to the working plane P, the total projected area of ​​the optical elements 94 on the plane P is minimized, and each optical element 94 is almost completely hidden behind a cell 30.

[0212] Similar to the previous embodiment, the control system 60 operates the optical arrangement 40 to rotate the optical elements 94 individually, in groups, or collectively about their axes of rotation 96, and ultimately to move the optical elements in the lateral direction X and / or transverse direction Z to manage the incident light passing through the gaps 32 of the photovoltaic modules 23 for energy conversion or illumination below the system.

[0213] 14A to 14C show a schematic representation of an installation 1 with an opto-mechanical system 10 according to a thirteenth embodiment of the invention.

[0214] The system 10 comprises, in the embodiment shown, a photovoltaic module 23 of the kind described in the previous embodiment and an optical device 40, here comprising two deformable curtains 41, 42 defined in the same working plane P and operable by a control system (not shown). According to alternative embodiments, the system 10 can comprise several optical devices defined in different, preferably parallel, working planes. The / each optical device 40 can further comprise only one curtain or three or more curtains.

[0215] Each curtain 41, 42 comprises according to the invention at least one reflective optical element and is at least partially retractable or deployable reversibly in a retraction direction X parallel to the actuation plane P.

[0216] The curtains 41, 42 may take any of the forms described with reference to the previous embodiments.

[0217] The control system can further be configured for retraction of the curtain, independent of whether it is folded or rolled.

[0218] The optical device 40 is further configured according to this thirteenth embodiment such that the first end 411, 421 and the second end 412, 422 of each curtain 41, 42 defined in a retraction direction are individually movable. Moreover, in this embodiment, the entirety of each deformable curtain 41, 42 is movable in the retraction direction X.

[0219] According to this embodiment, a control system (not shown) allows different control modes for each curtain 41, 42 of the optical device 40 as follows: - Deploy / Retract mode: In this mode, the effective surface of the curtains 41, 42 and their projected area S on the working plane P is adjusted by moving only one end of the curtain or by moving both ends relative to each other (generally in opposite directions). - A moving mode, in which the effective surface of the curtains 41, 42 remains constant, but the position of the entire curtain is adjusted by moving both ends of the curtain together, i.e. at the same time, in the same retraction direction and orientation, and by the same distance.

[0220] The movement mode can occur when the curtains are in a retracted and / or fully deployed position, and / or in a partially retracted position as shown in Figures 14A and 14B, however, each curtain 41, 42 is preferably movable to any position.

[0221] By moving the curtains 41, 42, the amount of light transmitted to, for example, the crops C below the system 10 can be more precisely controlled. The shade provided by each curtain 41, 42 can be positioned freely at any time of day. For example, it may be desirable to shade the paths T between the crops C all day long, reducing temperature while still maintaining the amount of direct light transmitted to the crops, without shading the crops C themselves. The position of the sun changes depending on the time of day, so the position of the curtains 41, 42 must be adjusted.

[0222] The control system may be configured to operate each curtain individually and independently of the other curtains when the optical device 40 includes more than one curtain 41, 42 as shown. The control system may be specifically configured to operate one curtain in one of the two modes mentioned above and another curtain in the other mode. The control system may also be configured to operate all curtains together in the same mode and manner.

[0223] FIG. 14A shows the system in the morning, illustrating the shadows created by curtains 41, 42 due to the position of the morning sun.

[0224] Figure 14B shows the same system in the afternoon. The direction of the shade projection is changing depending on the position of the sun. In the initial position of the curtains 41, 42 (as shown in Figure 14A), the crop will be completely shaded. The curtains 41, 42 are moved laterally a distance d1 to optimize the amount of direct sunlight delivered to the crop C, increasing the amount of direct sunlight to the crop.

[0225] Each curtain 41, 42 is moved as a whole with the distance (measured in the retraction direction) between its respective ends 411 and 421, and between its respective ends 412 and 422 kept constant, as shown in Figure 14B. The control system, for example, operates to move both ends of each curtain 41, 42 simultaneously, in the same retraction direction X and orientation, the same distance d1.

[0226] 14C shows yet another configuration of the system of FIGS. 14A and 14B where the curtains 41, 42 are retracted after movement by movement of the first ends 411, 421 of the curtains (the second ends 412, 422 remain in place). A combination of both the moving and retract / extend modes allows the system 10 to reach an optimal position where the best balance is found between the amount of direct light transmitted to the crops C, the surfaces that are shaded, and the location of the surfaces that are shaded.

[0227] The control system typically comprises a displacement system configured to reversibly retract or deploy the curtains and / or move the curtains. The displacement system may for example comprise a dual transmission means for respectively moving the first and second ends of each curtain. Non-limiting examples of adapted systems are described hereinafter with reference to Figures 15A to 15D.

[0228] 15A to 15D show an optical device 40 comprising a deformable curtain 41 and a control system 60 with displacement means 170 that allows moving both ends 411, 412 of the curtain 41 to retract or unretract the curtain 41, or to move the entire curtain 41 in a retraction direction X.

[0229] Such a displacement system 170 here comprises a double transmission means integrally connected to the first end 411 and to the second end 412 of the curtain 41, respectively.

[0230] As shown in FIG. 15A, a first transmission system 1721 coupled to the actuator 62 is configured to move the first end 411 of the curtain 41 .

[0231] The first transmission system 1721 in this example comprises a moveable elongated flexible component 1731 mounted between two rotatable supports 1741 and 1751 .

[0232] The component 1731 is in a particular example an endless component such as an endless belt or cable, and the rotatable supports 1741, 1751 are shafts, wheels or pulleys. The component 1731 forms two straight parallel strands 1761, 1771, one of the strands (here the upper strand 1761) is defined as the so-called useful section, the function of which will be explained hereafter.

[0233] The first end 411 of the curtain 41 merges with a straight useful section 1761 of the endless component 1731 as shown.

[0234] The first end 411 of the curtain 41 is attached to the first attachment portion A1 of the useful section 1761, in particular by a rod 1781 or other suitable connecting element.

[0235] The first transmission system 1721 further comprises a first drive wheel 1791 adapted to move the endless component 1731 in one direction or the opposite direction in response to a signal from an actuator 62 to which the first drive wheel is connected.

[0236] A second transmission system 1722 coupled to the same actuator 62 is configured to move the second end 142 of the curtain 42 .

[0237] The transmission system 1722 is identical to the first transmission system 1721 .

[0238] The second transmission system comprises an elongated flexible endless component 1732 movably mounted between two rotatable supports 1742 and 1752, such as shafts, wheels or pulleys.

[0239] The component 1732 forms parallel strands 1762, 1772, one of the strands (1762) forming a useful section, the attachment portion A2 of the useful section being integral with the second end 412 of the curtain 41 via a rod 1782 or other suitable connecting element.

[0240] The second transmission system 1722 further includes a second drive wheel 1792 adapted to move the endless component 1732 in one direction or the opposite direction in response to a signal from the actuator 62 to which the second drive wheel is connected.

[0241] The curtain may be foldable or rollable, not shown.

[0242] The displacement system 170 advantageously comprises additional means for guiding the curtain along the retraction direction X when the curtain is folded. The guiding means may for example comprise taut cables extending in the retraction direction and arranged above and / or below the curtain, to which the curtain is slidingly attached, for example via eyelets or similar elements.

[0243] If the curtain is to be rolled, the first end and / or the second end may be rotatably mounted around a spindle and preferably an automatic winding system is provided. In such a case, such a spindle may be attached to connecting rods 1781, 1782.

[0244] The components 1731, 1732 are oriented relative to the actuation plane P such that the useful sections 1761, 1762 of the components are substantially parallel to the retraction direction X, as shown.

[0245] Both transmission systems 1721 and 1722 are superimposed in the transverse direction Z and, in projection onto the working plane P, the respective length L1, L2 of each useful section 1761, 1762 is at least equal to the length of the required range of movement of the curtain 41.

[0246] As shown in FIG. 15A, when the curtain 41 is in its maximum deployed configuration, the first mounting portion A1 is located closest to the first rotatable support 1741 of the first component 1731, and the second mounting portion A2 is located closest to the second rotatable support 1752 of the second component 1732.

[0247] 15B, rotating the drive wheel 1791 counterclockwise directs the useful section 1761, and thus the first end 411 of the curtain 41, towards the second end 412. The curtain 41 is retracted.

[0248] 15C, rotating the drive wheel 1792 clockwise directs the useful section 1762, and therefore the second end 412 of the curtain 41, towards the first end 411. The curtain 41 is retracted even further.

[0249] As shown in Figure 15D, rotating both drive wheels 1791, 1792 together causes symmetrical movement of the first and second components 1731, 1732, thus moving both the first end 411 and the second end 412 of the curtain 41. The entire curtain 41 moves without further retraction or extension of the curtain.

[0250] The curtain, in these thirteenth and fourteenth embodiments, may take any suitable form and the retraction of the curtain may be by folding into pleats, rolling up or in any other suitable manner.

[0251] Moreover, according to certain embodiments, as shown in Figures 14A to 14C, when the optical device 40 comprises two or more curtains 41, 42 and the control system is configured to operate all curtains jointly in the same mode and in the same manner, each transmission system of the type described with reference to Figures 15A to 15D can be arranged to move multiple curtains in parallel. For example, a first end of each curtain can be connected to a useful section of a first transmission system and a second end of each curtain can be connected to a useful section of a second transmission system, so long as the elongated components of each transmission system are appropriately dimensioned. Movement of the first elongated component can then cause simultaneous movement of the first end of each curtain. Similarly, movement of the second elongated component can cause simultaneous movement of the second end of each curtain.

Claims

1. Specifically, an opto-mechanical system (10) for light conditioning and power generation for an agricultural installation (1), said opto-mechanical system (10) comprising: at least one translucent photovoltaic module (23) comprising a plurality of bifacial photovoltaic cells (30) arranged in rows and columns with gaps (32) between the rows, the columns, or both, wherein the photovoltaic module (23) is configured such that at least a portion of sunlight (101) incident on a front side (24) of the photovoltaic module is transmitted through the gaps (32); at least one optical device (40, 50) arranged in an operating plane (P, P1, P2) behind said translucent photovoltaic module (23), said optical device (40, 50) comprising at least one reflective optical element (43, 45, 90, 94) with a reflective surface (43a, 45a, 45b, 90a, 94a), said reflective surface adapted to redirect at least a portion of the transmitted sunlight (102) towards a rear side (26) of said translucent photovoltaic module (23) opposite said front side (24); wherein the optomechanical system (10) further comprises a control system (60) configured to operate the at least one optical device (40, 50) to adjust a projected area (S) of the at least one reflective optical element (41, 45, 90, 94) on the working plane (P, P1, P2).

2. 2. The optomechanical system of claim 1, wherein the control system is configured to selectively operate the at least one optical device between at least a first configuration and a second configuration, and wherein the projected area of ​​the at least one reflective optical element in the second configuration is less than 50% of the projected area of ​​the at least one optical element in the first configuration, preferably less than 30% of the projected area in the first configuration, and even more preferably less than 10% of the projected area in the first configuration.

3. 2. The optomechanical system (10) according to claim 1, comprising at least two optical devices (40, 50) arranged in different working planes (P1, P2) one above the other.

4. 2. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 1, wherein the optical device (40, 50) comprises at least one deformable curtain (41) having at least one reflective optical element (43, 45), and the control system (60) is configured to reversibly at least partially retract or deploy the deformable curtain (41) in a retraction direction parallel to the actuation plane (P, P1, P2).

5. 5. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 4, wherein the control system comprises an actuator and at least one transmission system that moves the end of the curtain in the retraction direction upon actuation of the actuator, the transmission system comprising at least one elongated flexible component movably mounted around at least two rotatable supports and defining at least one useful section between the supports, and a connecting element that connects the one end of the curtain to the useful section.

6. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 4, wherein both ends of said at least one deformable curtain are movable in said retracting direction.

7. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 6, wherein both ends of the curtain are independently movable in the retracting direction.

8. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 6, wherein the control system is further configured to move the entire deformable curtain in the retracted direction.

9. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the control system comprises an actuator and at least a first transmission system and a second transmission system, each transmission system comprising an elongated flexible component movably mounted around at least two rotatable supports and defining at least one useful section between the supports, and at least one connecting element connecting an end of the curtain to the useful section.

10. 9. The method of claim 4, wherein the deformable curtain (41) in the deployed configuration blocks substantially all sunlight passing through the at least one photovoltaic module (23). An optomechanical system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

11. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the deformable curtain (41) is at least partially flexible.

12. 9. The optomechanical system (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the deformable curtain (41) is at least partially formed by a sheet (43) having an upper surface (43a) comprising a reflective material.

13. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the control system (60) comprises a winding system (80) for winding the deformable curtain (41).

14. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the control system (60) comprises a folding system (70) for folding the deformable curtain (41).

15. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the deformable curtain (41) comprises alternating regions (46, 47) having different optical properties, the pitch between the regions being equal to the pitch between adjacent photovoltaic cells, and the control system (60) is adapted to make fine adjustments to the position of the curtain (41) by moving the curtain by a distance equal to the pitch between adjacent photovoltaic cells.

16. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the deformable curtain (41) comprises a sheet (44) and a plurality of reflective optical elements (45) mounted on the sheet (44).

17. 9. The optomechanical system (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the at least one optical device (40, 50) comprises at least two deformable curtains (41, 42) arranged in the same actuation plane (P).

18. 18. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 17, wherein the two curtains are arranged such that their proximal ends face each other in the retracted direction, so that when one or both curtains are deployed, their distal ends move closer together, and the control system (60) is configured to adjust the position and / or width of a gap (49) between the partially deployed curtains (41, 42).

19. 4. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 1, wherein the at least one optical device (40, 50) comprises a plurality of reflective optical elements (90), each reflective optical element (90) being pivotable about at least one axis (R), and the control system (60) is configured to manipulate the rotation of the optical elements (90).

20. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one reflective optical element (45) comprises at least two adjacent, angled planar surfaces.

21. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one reflective optical element has spectrally selective reflectivity and / or transmissivity.

22. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 1, wherein the control system (60) comprises distance adjustment means (66) for adjusting the distance (d) between the photovoltaic module (23) and the optical device (40) in a transverse direction (Z) substantially perpendicular to the working plane (P).

23. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the translucent photovoltaic module (23) comprises a front plane (34) and a rear plane (36) stacked respectively on top of and directly below the bifacial photovoltaic cells (30), and optical means on the front plane (34) and / or the rear plane (36) for diffusing or focusing the incident sunlight (101) towards the optical device (40, 50).

24. 9. The optomechanical system (10) of claim 1, wherein the control system (60) comprises at least one sensor (64) and a computer system (63) configured to receive a signal provided by the sensor (64) and to control the optical device (40) based on the signal in accordance with a feedback loop.

25. 10. An agricultural installation (1) comprising a support structure (2) arranged above a crop (C) and at least one optical-mechanical system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8 mounted on the support structure (2).

26. 26. A method for managing an agricultural installation (1) according to claim 25, said method comprising at least: - determining at least one parameter representative of the environmental conditions below or around said at least one optomechanical system (10) and / or the electricity production of said at least one photovoltaic module (23) of said optomechanical system (10); - actuating said at least one optical device (40, 50) of said optomechanical system (10) depending on said parameters; A method comprising:

27. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the at least one optical device (40, 50) comprises at least one deformable curtain (41), and the actuating step comprises at least partially retracting or deploying the deformable curtain (41) in the retracting direction.

28. 28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: said at least one optical device (40, 50) moving the entire deformable curtain in said retracting direction.

29. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the determining step comprises determining a first parameter representative of a temperature in an environment of the plant and a second parameter representative of an amount of direct light impinging on the plant, and wherein the operating step comprises operating the optical device to minimize the first parameter and maximize the second parameter.

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