Vertical photovoltaic power system and method for assembling such a system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fixed vertical photovoltaic system, the system comprising at least -Structure (110), - a photovoltaic module (115) supported on a structure, a structural base (120) configured for rigid attachment to a mounting surface (102); - means for positioning the structure on the base, the positioning means being at least freely rotating and adapted to position the structure according to variable angular positions to be placed (125); and - means for fixing the angular position of the means for positioning the structure relative to the structural base (130) has.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vertical photovoltaic system and to a method for assembling such a system.The present invention has particular application in the field of energy production from renewable sources.

[0002] In the field of energy production from renewable resources, the use of photovoltaic systems is an effective solution for converting light energy into electrical energy. However, the assembly of such systems requires taking into account certain constraints at the installation site and depending on the installation site. Such constraints may be determined in particular by the topography of the installation site. Thus, if the installation site has a steep and uneven slope, this constraint poses additional challenges when assembling a photovoltaic system.

[0003] None of the prior art solutions describe a solar power generation system suitable for the stringent spatial constraints inherent in an installation site. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The object of the present invention is to remedy all or some of these drawbacks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] To that end, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides a fixed vertical photovoltaic power system comprising at least -struct, - A photovoltaic module supported on a structure; A structural base configured to be firmly attached to a mounting surface; - means for positioning the structure on the base, the positioning means being adapted to at least rotate freely and to position the structure according to variable angular positions to be installed; and - means for fixing the angular position of the means for positioning the structure relative to the structural base; The present invention envisages a solar power generation system having the above structure.

[0006] These measures allow the system to utilize multiple angular positions relative to the mounting surface of the structure. In this way, the system can adapt to different types of uneven terrain and can be considered "all-terrain". It can thus be seen that a fixed vertical photovoltaic system can adapt to, for example, the specific constraints of the mounting surface. In particular, the adaptability of such a photovoltaic system means that multiple mounting surfaces can be used, for example those with uneven slopes. In this way, the photovoltaic system has maximum flexibility.

[0007] Furthermore, when solar power systems are assembled on steep and uneven terrain, the use of such systems eliminates the need to, for example: -Leveling the area, -Performing complex positioning calculations and measurements; and / or - Using complex electronic positioning systems such as satellites.

[0008] In this way, it is easy to assemble the system vertically on the mounting surface.

[0009] In some optional embodiments, the structure comprises at least one bar configured to rigidly attach to at least one module, and the structural base comprises means for positioning the structure.

[0010] With these measures, the positioning means are integrated into the structural base, thus enhancing the transfer of mechanical stresses applied to the structure and modules to the structural base, for example static or dynamic mechanical stresses that occur when photovoltaic systems are assembled in locations exposed to persistent or variable high winds, thus limiting mechanical stresses that may cause premature deterioration of the structure and modules.

[0011] In some optional embodiments, the positioning means has a housing forming a shoulder, and the bar is shaped to mate with the housing.

[0012] By these measures the bar is held within a housing contained in the positioning means whilst retaining a degree of rotational freedom.

[0013] In some optional embodiments, the positioning means also have at least one slot configured to allow positioning the bar according to multiple angular positions. These measures allow the positioning means to increase the number of angular positions available when assembling the photovoltaic system. The system is flexible and adaptable, especially when the installation site has slopes bordering concave or convex areas.

[0014] In some optional embodiments, the structure includes at least one bar configured to rigidly attach to the at least one module, and the positioning means is disposed between the structural base and the structure.

[0015] By these measures, the positioning means are separate from the structural base and the structure.

[0016] This facilitates replacement of such positioning means, for example if damaged or defective, without the need to replace the entire structural base or structure.

[0017] In some optional embodiments, one element of the positioning means or the bar has a hole and the other element has a shaft, the hole and the shaft forming a pivot link having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the axis of the bar.

[0018] With these measures, the angular position of the structure is obtained by means of pivot links, so that the bars supporting the modules have several possible angular positions with one or two degrees of freedom.

[0019] In some optional embodiments, the system also has an additional means for positioning the structure on the base, the additional positioning means being freely rotating and having two elements, each element defining a separate surface, the surfaces being parallel and in contact with each other and configured to form a pivot link having an axis of rotation that intersects the mounting surface.

[0020] These measures allow additional positioning means to perform additional rotations, for example depending on site-specific constraints or the presence of obstacles at the installation site. The photovoltaic system has an additional degree of rotational freedom. In this way, the flexibility of the photovoltaic system is increased.

[0021] In some optional embodiments, the structure includes at least one cross member and the structural base includes means for positioning the cross member.

[0022] These measures allow the system to use, for example, cross members that can be placed in several positions at the structure. Furthermore, the orientation of the cross members can be changed using the positioning means of the structural base. Thus, several structures and various angular positions are possible. Thus, the system has considerable flexibility.

[0023] In some optional embodiments, one of the positioning means and cross member elements has a hole and the other element has a shaft, the hole and the shaft forming a pivot link having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the axis of the structural base.

[0024] These measures allow the structure supporting the modules to have multiple angular positions with one or two degrees of freedom.

[0025] In some optional embodiments, the photovoltaic module is rectangular, and the module is secured to the structure and oriented such that one short side of the module faces the mounting surface.

[0026] These measures ensure that the photovoltaic modules in the photovoltaic system are fixed at least at one of the long sides, which improves their resistance to mechanical stresses compared to systems in which the modules are fixed at one of the short sides. In particular, fixing the long sides of the modules provides additional support to the modules, which allows them to be arranged in a configuration known as "portrait". Thus, a more stable vertical fixed photovoltaic system is assembled on the mounting surface. This system also makes it possible to reduce the installation area and, in particular, to increase compatibility with agricultural activities at the installation site.

[0027] Such systems are therefore also compatible with agrivoltaics, for example. In particular, they have a low hydrological impact on plants when installed on agricultural land. A coexistence activity is thus established, which corresponds to the coexistence of the main agricultural activity with the efficient energy production by one or more photovoltaic systems. This coexistence activity is called "agrivoltaics", also known as "Agri-PV" or "APV".

[0028] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for assembling a fixed vertical photovoltaic system, comprising: - A process of firmly attaching the structural base to the installation surface; - supporting at least one photovoltaic module on a structure; - positioning the structure on a structural base according to at least one variable angular position; and - Fixing the angular position of the structure on a structural base. The present invention contemplates a method comprising:

[0029] The particular objects, advantages and features of the assembly method that is the subject of the present invention are generally the same as the particular objects, advantages and features of the system that is the subject of the present invention, and therefore will not be repeated here.

[0030] Other advantages, objects and particular features of the present invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description of at least one particular embodiment of the system and method that is the subject of the present invention, with reference to the drawings contained in the Appendix. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic front view of a first particular embodiment of the system that is the subject of the present invention; FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a first particular embodiment of the positioning means in three views: a front view on the left, a side view in the middle and a top view on the right. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a second particular embodiment of the positioning means in two views: a front view on the left and a top view on the right. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a third particular embodiment of the positioning means in two views: a front view on the left and a top view on the right. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a fourth particular embodiment of the positioning means; [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a fifth particular embodiment of the positioning means in two views: a front view on the left and a top view on the right. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a sixth particular embodiment of the positioning means in two views: a front view on the left and a top view on the right. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a seventh particular embodiment of the positioning means in two views: a front view on the left and a top view on the right. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a schematic top view of an eighth particular embodiment of the positioning means; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic top view of elements of an eighth particular embodiment of the positioning means shown in FIG. 9; [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a particular embodiment of a structure of the system. [Figure 12] 1A-1C are schematic front views of several particular embodiments of the structure of the system. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a second particular embodiment of the system that is the subject of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic front view of a modification of the second embodiment shown in FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is a schematic front view of a modification of the second embodiment shown in FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a particular embodiment of a structure of the present system. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic front view of a particular embodiment of the structure shown in FIG. 16 supporting a photovoltaic module. [Figure 18] 1A-1D are schematic side views of two particular embodiments of a cross member. [Figure 19] 1A and 1B are schematic top and cross-sectional views of a first particular embodiment of a bar; [Figure 20] 1A-1D are schematic top and cross-sectional views of a particular bar, module and fastening means assembly; [Figure 21] 11A-11C are schematic cross-sectional side views of five particular embodiments of the second cross member. [Figure 22] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of three particular embodiments of a second cross member; [Diagram 23] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of three particular embodiments of a second cross member; [Figure 24] 1 is a diagrammatic and logic diagram representation of a particular sequence of steps of the method that is the subject of the present invention; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] This specification is described in a non-limiting manner, and each feature of the embodiments can be advantageously combined with other features of other embodiments.

[0033] Throughout the specification, the term "upper" refers to an upper position in the left and center of Figs. 1 and 2, the left of Fig. 3, the left of Fig. 4, the left of Fig. 5, the left of Fig. 6, the left of Fig. 7, the left of Fig. 8, Figs. 13-15, 17, 18, and 21-23, which corresponds to the normal use configuration of the system, and the term "lower" refers to a lower position in the left and center of Figs. 1 and 2, the left of Fig. 3, the left of Fig. 4, Fig. 5, the left of Fig. 6, the left of Fig. 7, the left of Fig. 8, Figs. 13-18, and 21-23. The term "rear" refers to a position behind the plane of Figs. 1, 13-15, and 17, and "front" refers to a position in front of the plane of Figs. 1 and 13-15. The terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are derived from these definitions. The term "top" refers to being located at the top or facing upwards in Figs. 12, 19 and 21, and the term "bottom" refers to being located at the bottom in Figs. 12, 19 and 21. The term "left" refers to being located at the left side in Figs. 2 to 4, 6 to 8, 10, 18, 21, 22 and 23. The term "right" refers to being located at the right side in Figs. 2 to 4, 6 to 8, 10, 18, 22 and 23. The term "centre" refers to being located at the centre in Figs. 2, 19, 22 and 23. The systems shown in Figs. 1 to 10 and 13 to 15 each have an axis A corresponding to the axis of the bar and an axis B corresponding to the axis about which the positioning means rotates when the system is not fixed, the axis B being perpendicular to the axis A of the bar and preferably perpendicular to a plane formed by the modules. The systems shown in Figures 13 to 15 each have an axis D corresponding to the axis of the structural base and an axis B corresponding to the axis about which the positioning means rotates when the system is not fixed, the axis B being perpendicular to axis D. The system shown in Figure 9 has an axis C of the second positioning means that intersects the mounting plane and is perpendicular to axis B.

[0034] Here, the following definitions are stated. The term "bifacial module" refers to a module that uses both sides to produce electricity. The faces of the module are the two surfaces with the largest dimensions. Bifacial modules allow light to be transmitted to the front and back of the solar cell, and the solar cell itself is bifacial.

[0035] Bifacial solar cells can use both sides to produce electricity. Typically, the rear of the module has a junction box, and the power produced on the rear side is usually less than that produced on the front side.

[0036] The term "dual glass module" refers to a module that has a glass front face and a glass rear face.

[0037] The term "increased power generation" refers to increased power generation, for example, due to an increase in the amount of solar energy reaching the solar cells of a module.

[0038] The term "ground-facing" refers to an installation configuration in which, when the photovoltaic module is rectangular, one short side of the photovoltaic module is closer to the ground than the other short side of the photovoltaic module.

[0039] The term "C-shaped" is used to define the shape of the crosspiece. a support side which supports the element and is substantially horizontal; - the opposite side to the supporting side, which does not support the element and is substantially horizontal The overall shape of the The supporting side and the opposing side are connected by two sides, which correspond to a front and a rear side, the front or rear side being at least partially free of material.

[0040] The term "U-shaped" is used to define the shape of the crosspiece. a support side which supports the element and is substantially horizontal; - The opposite side of the support side, which does not support the element, is substantially horizontal and partially free of material The overall shape of the The supporting side and the opposing side are connected by two sides, which correspond to the front and rear sides.

[0041] The term "installation surface" refers to a surface on which a photovoltaic power system is assembled or placed. For example, such a surface may refer to an installation ground. For example, such an installation ground may be a farm field.

[0042] The term "static or dynamic mechanical stress" refers to stresses on a photovoltaic system. In particular, such stresses depend on the characteristics of the installation site. For example, such stresses are caused by wind blowing on the surface of a photovoltaic module.

[0043] The term "vertical photovoltaic system" refers to a system or part of a system that defines at least one plane that is substantially perpendicular to a mounting surface, for example, the mounting surface defines a horizontal plane.

[0044] The term "fixed photovoltaic system" refers to a system whose position in space is fixed, especially in terms of angles and straight lines. In other words, a fixed photovoltaic system does not correspond to a mobile photovoltaic system, for example a system whose modules follow the path of the sun.

[0045] Please note that the drawings are not to scale.

[0046] 1 (not to scale) is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a system 100 that is the subject of the present invention. It can be seen that the fixed vertical system 100 comprises at least one structure 110 and at least one photovoltaic module 115 supported by the structure 110.

[0047] The system 100 includes: -structural base 120, - means 125 for positioning the structure 110 on the structural base 120; and - means 130 for rigidly attaching the positioning means 125 It is clear that they also have

[0048] Please note the following: The structural base 120 is configured for rigid attachment to the mounting surface 102 . The positioning means 125 are at least configured to rotate freely and to position the structure 110 according to variable angular positions of the installation. The mounting means 130 are configured to fix the angular position of the structure 110 relative to the structural base 120 .

[0049] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, the faces bounded by the solar cells of the photovoltaic module 115 form a parallelepiped.

[0050] In some embodiments (not shown), at least two solar power generation modules 115 are arranged vertically, with one solar power generation module 115 positioned above the other solar power generation module 115 when the solar power generation system 100 of the system 100 is set up.

[0051] In some embodiments, the photovoltaic module 115 has a frame. In some variations, the photovoltaic module 115 is frameless. In other words, the fastening edges of the module 115 are free of fastening frames. For example, the photovoltaic module 115 is a frameless double-glazed module.

[0052] 1, the photovoltaic module 115 is rectangular. It can be seen that the module 115 is secured to the structure 110 and oriented such that one short side of the module 115 faces the mounting surface 102.

[0053] In some embodiments, the structure 110 supporting at least one photovoltaic module 115 is a cradle, such as the one shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 shows three photovoltaic modules 115 supported by the cradle 110. In particular, the cradle 110 has a lower horizontal element that supports the short sides of the rectangular photovoltaic modules 115. For example, such horizontal element is a cross member. It is noted that the cradle 110 also has a vertical element that rigidly mounts the long sides of the photovoltaic modules 115. For example, such vertical element corresponds to a bar or a post.

[0054] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, the structural base 120 is configured to be rigidly attached to the mounting surface 102. It should be noted that the structure 120 may include multiple subassemblies. FIG. 1 shows the structural base 120 including a stud 103. The stud 103 may be made of concrete or metal, for example. For example, the stud 103 may have an element 104 extending therethrough that is secured to the mounting surface 102, such element being configured to securely attach the structural base 102. The element 104 may be, for example, a post or a series of screws secured to the ground.

[0055] It should be noted that the cradle 110 shown in FIG. 1 may be assembled, for example, at a factory and then transported to the installation site 102 and assembled at a specific assembly site, or may be assembled at the installation site 102 .

[0056] 1 shows a single structural base 120 supporting the two cradles 110. In some variations, the two cradles 110 are supported on two different structural bases 120.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, a system 100 includes: a structure 110 having at least one bar 101 with an axis A, the bar being adapted to be rigidly attached to at least one module 115; and a structural base 120 having means 125 for positioning the structure; Includes.

[0058] 1 shows that the bar 101 of the structure 110 has an axis A, which is parallel to the largest dimension of the bar 101. For example, if the bar 101 is a tapered cylinder, then axis A is parallel to the generatrix of the tapered cylinder. For example, if the bar 101 is a polyhedron, then axis A is parallel to the edge of the largest dimension.

[0059] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Figure 2, the positioning means 125 has a housing 106. The housing 106 is shaped to surround the end of the bar 101. Note that the end of the bar 101 is a profile 108 that fits with the housing 106. The housing 106 forms a shoulder 107 as shown in the center and right side of Figure 2. The shoulder 107 abuts the profile 108 at the end of the bar 101, thereby maintaining the profile 108 within the housing 106. In other words, the stop formed by the shoulder 107 prevents the mating profile 108 from disengaging.

[0060] Fig. 2 shows the positioning means 125 which is free to rotate at least about axis B when the system 100 is assembled. The positioning means 125 is configured to position the structure 110 according to the variable angular positions it is installed in, with a rotational degree of freedom when assembled. The rotational degree of freedom of the positioning means 125 is indicated by a curved double arrow on the left side of Fig. 2. This rotational degree of freedom allows a large number of angular positions that the system 100 can take. The elements of the means 125 preferably form a pivot link. In particular, the various angles that determine the angular positions associated with this pivot link are contained in a plane that is generally perpendicular to the installation surface 102 or to a horizontal plane.

[0061] In some embodiments, as in the one shown in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the positioning means 125 has at least one slot 109 and / or 121. The slot 109 and / or 121 are configured to allow the bar 101 to be positioned according to several angular positions. In particular, the side slot 121 shown on the right side of Fig. 2 provides an additional range of rotation for the pivot link with the axis of rotation B. In other words, the stud 103 has a side slot 121, also called a side opening, to allow the inclination of the cradle 110 to be easily changed. In some variants, as in the one shown in Fig. 3, the central slot 109 also provides an additional range of rotation for the pivot link with the axis of rotation B. In particular, such a central slot 109 increases the adaptability of the system 100 when the installation location 102 has, for example, a convex or concave surface.

[0062] In some embodiments (not shown), the means 130 for rigidly mounting the positioning means 125 comprises at least one bolt. For example, the stud 103 and the end of the bar 101 each have an internally tapped hole, the holes being aligned and the internal threads matching the threads of the bolt. In other words, the bolt is screwed into the end of the stud 103 and the bar 101. In another example, only the stud has an internally tapped hole and a bolt, and when the stud is screwed, the end of the bar 101 is pushed up against a stop. In another embodiment (not shown), the mounting part 130 of the positioning means 125 comprises at least two bolts. The bolts can be screwed according to the same structural features described above.

[0063] In some embodiments (not shown), the stud 103 has a through opening, and the attachment means 130 comprises an assembly formed of a crossbar and a bolt. Such a crossbar has at least one portion with a dimension larger than the opening of the stud 103. For example, the crossbar and the end of the base have an internally tapped hole. The holes are aligned and the internal tapping matches the tapping of the bolt. In particular, when the attachment means 130 fixes the angular position, the bolt is screwed and rigidly attaches the crossbar to the bar 101 of the structure 110. It is noted that such a crossbar comes into contact with the stud 103 when the bolt is screwed. In some variations, another assembly including a crossbar and a bolt rigidly attaches the bar 101 of the structure 110 to the stud 103 on the opposite side of the through opening.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Figure 4, the end of the bar 101 of the structure 110 has a hole 122 and the positioning means 125 has a shaft 123. Note that the hole 122 and the shaft 123 form a pivot link with an axis of rotation B perpendicular to the axis A of the bar 101.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Fig. 4, the positioning means 125 and the attachment means 130 have common elements such as a shaft 123 and a hole 122. It is noted that the attachment means 130 also has a nut that allows the angular position of the pivot link to be fixed. In other words, the bar 101 is fixed in the stud 103 by tightening the bolt on the face of the stud 103. Fig. 4 shows a shaft 123 with a shoulder configured to press the structure 110 against the stud 103 when the bolt 130 is screwed.

[0066] In some variants, such as the one shown in FIG. 5, the bar 101 is rigidly attached to a free-rotating intermediate element 111. The intermediate element 111 may, for example, be - bolted to the structure 110, - fixed to the stud 103 by attachment means, such attachment means having the same structural features as those previously described; Please note that.

[0067] In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 6-10, a system 100 includes: a structure 110 comprising at least one bar 101 having an axis A, the bar 101 being configured to be rigidly attached to at least one module 115; and Positioning means 125 arranged between the structural base 120 and the structure 110 has.

[0068] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 6, the positioning means 125 comprises an intermediate part 113 and an intermediate element 111 that are disposed between the structural base 120 and the structure 110. In other words, the intermediate part 113 and the intermediate element 111 are rigidly attached and disposed on the studs 103. FIG. 6 shows that the structure 110 is rigidly attached to the intermediate element 111 by a set of screws 112. It should be noted that one of the elements, the intermediate part 113 and the intermediate element 111, has a shaft and the other element has a hole, the shaft and the hole forming a pivot link. Such pivot link and attachment means 130 may be provided in the embodiment described in FIG. 5 as well.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 7, the positioning means 125 also includes a panel 113 disposed between the structural base 120 and the structure 110. It should be noted that the structural features described above for the positioning means 125 and shown in Figures 4 and 5 are also valid for the positioning means 125 shown in Figure 7.

[0070] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Figure 8, a panel 113 separates the base 120 and the structure 110. It should be noted that in these embodiments, a part of the bar 101 of the structure 110 slides on the columnar bar 124 of the panel 113. It should be noted that the axis B is parallel to the generatrix of the columnar bar 124. This part of the bar 101 of the structure 110 is fixed in a certain angular position by a mounting means 130, for example having a bolt and nut system.

[0071] In these embodiments, the system 110 has a hole 117, as shown on the left side of FIG. 8. This hole is circular, with a through cavity in the circle. This hole 117 is also called the "rotation point". The columnar bar 124 of the panel 113 forms a shaft. Thus, the hole 117 and the columnar bar 124 form a pivot link with a rotation axis B. It should be noted that the panel 113 is placed at this hole 117, and has dimensions, for example, equal to or smaller than the outer diameter of the circle. Thus, several angular positions are possible with this arrangement. On the left side of FIG. 8, the rotational degree of freedom of the positioning means 125 is indicated by a curved double arrow.

[0072] In some variations, such as those shown in Figures 11 and 12, one or more holes 117 are provided at various locations on the structure 110. These holes 117 are positioned on the structure 110, also referred to as the cradle 110, to provide flexibility in installation on a sloped site 102. For example, the number and location of holes 117 on the cradle 110 are determined depending on the steepness of the slope of the installation site 102.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 9 and 10, the system 100 also has additional means 126 for positioning the structure 110 on the base 120. Such additional means 126 are free to rotate. In these embodiments, the positioning means 125 and the additional positioning means 126 are in contact with a single element 113 that corresponds to a panel.

[0074] In these embodiments, the additional second positioning means 126 has two elements 114 and 116. In particular, the panel 113 has two parts 114 and 116. It is to be noted that each part 114 and 116 defines a separate surface, which surfaces are parallel and in contact. Such surfaces are configured to form a pivot link having a rotation axis C that intersects with the installation surface 102. The rotation axis C is preferably perpendicular to the installation surface 102 or to the horizon. Moreover, the pivot link of this axis C is perpendicular to the rotation axis B of the other pivot link. In particular, the various angles that determine the angular position associated with this pivot link are contained in a plane that is generally parallel to the installation surface 102. It is to be noted that such a pivot link of the additional positioning means 126 forms a hinge.

[0075] In some embodiments (not shown), the panel 113 is offset relative to the structural base 120 to facilitate tilting the cradle 110 .

[0076] In some embodiments, routing of the cables 302 of the modules 115 occurs above or below the panel 113. In some variations, protective raceways for the cables 302 are recessed within the panel 113.

[0077] FIG. 13 (not to scale) is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a system 200 that is the subject of the present invention.

[0078] 13 shows a fixed vertical solar power system 200 having at least one structure 210 and at least one solar power module 115 supported by the structure 210. Such a structure 210 is also shown in FIGS.

[0079] The system 200 includes: -structural base 220, - means 225 for positioning the structure 210 on the structural base 220; and - means 130 for rigidly attaching the positioning means 225 It is also clear that

[0080] the structural base 220 is configured for rigid attachment to the mounting surface 102; the positioning means 225 are at least freely rotating and are configured to position the structure 210 according to variable angular positions of installation; and the mounting means 130 are configured to fix the angular position of the structure 210 relative to the structural base 220; Please note.

[0081] 13, the structural base 220 includes components that are fixed to the ground at the installation site 102. The structural base 220 includes, among other things, posts 104 or pegs 104 that are rigidly attached to the installation surface 102.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 13-15, the photovoltaic system 200 includes a structure 210 including at least one cross member 201. In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figure 16, the cross member 201 has various profiles. On the left side of Figure 18, the cross member 201 has a square profile, and on the right side of Figure 18, the cross member 201 has a hexagonal profile. The profile of the cross member 201 is preferably hexagonal. In that case, the solar radiation directly emitted from the photovoltaic module, indicated by the arrow on the right side of Figure 18, is maximized.

[0083] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in FIG. 13, the photovoltaic power system 200 also includes a structural base 220 having means 225 for positioning the cross member 201 .

[0084] Figure 13 shows a structure 210 with at least one bar 101 supporting one or two photovoltaic modules 115. Each axis A of the bars 101 is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of a cross member 201. It should be noted that the bars 101 are also called "parallel bars". The cross members 201 are fixed to the parallel bars 101 in any manner known to those skilled in the art.

[0085] In these embodiments, the cross member 201 has a hole 203 as shown in Figures 16 and 17. It should be noted that the structural base 220 has, for example, a shaft (not shown). The hole 203 and the shaft form a pivot link with a rotation axis B perpendicular to the axis D of the structural base 220. In other words, the cross member 201 is free to rotate at least about the axis B. For example, if the base 220 is a tapered cylinder, the axis D is parallel to the generatrix of the tapered cylinder. For example, if the bar 101 is a polyhedron, the axis D is parallel to the edge with the largest dimension.

[0086] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Fig. 13, the attachment means 130 comprises a bolt. In particular, the bolt of the attachment means 130 fixes the cross member 201 and the structural base 220 according to a predetermined angular position. In other words, the cross member 201 portion of the structure 210 is fixed at a certain angular position by the attachment means 130.

[0087] In some variants, such as those shown in Figures 14 and 15, the structure 210 has an additional cross member 202. In other words, the structure 210 has a lower cross member 202 and an upper cross member 201. In particular, the photovoltaic module 115 is rigidly attached to the two cross members 201 and 202, which are preferably parallel to each other. It is noted that the structural base 220 is fixed to the ends of each cross member 201 and 202 by the attachment means 130.

[0088] The structural base 220 preferably has a lower part 222 and an upper part 221 as shown in FIG. 15. It should be noted that the lower part 222 forms a slide channel, the upper part 221 forms a slide, and the slide channel and the slide form a slide link. The slide link is fixed, for example, by a bolt or in any other manner known to the person skilled in the art. In particular, when the bolt is screwed, the lower part 222 exerts pressure on the upper part 221 and fixes the slide link. Such a slide link is configured to adjust the height of the structural base 220, for example, depending on the inclination of the installation site. Furthermore, there is a certain distance between the two cross members 201 and 202. This limits the mechanical stress at the clips arranged between the cross members 201 and 202 and the photovoltaic module 115.

[0089] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 13-15, the photovoltaic module 115 is rectangular. It can be seen that the module 115 is secured to the structure 210 and oriented such that one short side of the module 115 is disposed facing the mounting surface 102.

[0090] The following embodiments and variations are valid for systems 100 and 200 unless otherwise specified.

[0091] In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 19, at least one bar 101 has a cross-sectional profile 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1017, 1018, 1019, 1020, 1021, 1022 or 1023 of the following shape: - triangle 1012, also shown in FIG. 20; - rectangle 1011, - Symmetrical H-shape 1013, -Asymmetric H-shape 1014, - Inclined H-shape 1020, -Cruciforms 1017, 1018 and 1019, -C-shaped 1015, -F-shaped 1016, - T-shaped (not shown), - Inclined T-shape 1022, - offset slanted T-shape 1021, or - Angled Z-shape 1023.

[0092] Figure 20 shows the path of the sun's rays, represented by arrows. Part of the light rays reaching the bar 101 will be reflected towards the module 115, especially if the bar 101 is made of an at least partially reflective material. Thus, if the module 115 is double-sided, the amount of electricity generated will be increased.

[0093] It should be noted that the cross-sectional profile of the bar 101 is selected from among the above cross-sectional profiles, for example based on the following criteria: - the desired mechanical resistance, -Installation constraints, -Reduced manufacturing and installation costs, and / or - If the module 115 is double-sided, the vertical shadow behind the module 115 is reduced.

[0094] Thus, the ease of installation and mechanical resistance of the photovoltaic system 100 or 200 is improved. Furthermore, the system 100 or 200 reduces vertical shadows on the rear side of the module 115. Thus, the power generation is increased if the module 115 is double-sided. Furthermore, an optimal reflection of sunlight is achieved at the photovoltaic module 115 if the bar 101 has one of the various cross-sectional profiles mentioned above and is at least partially made of a reflective material. This helps to increase the power generation.

[0095] In some embodiments, the solar photovoltaic module 115 of the system 100 or 200 includes: at least one bolt and nut assembly (not shown) capable of preventing, in particular, the photovoltaic module 115 from slipping off, at least one clip system, as shown in FIG. 20, which is capable of preventing in particular the photovoltaic module 115 from becoming dislodged, at least one spring (not shown), and / or at least one gripper, e.g. a clamp (not shown) It is fixed to the bar 101 by

[0096] In some embodiments, the front face of the photovoltaic module 115 is flush with the front face delimited by the bar 101 of the system 100 or 200. In other words, the front face of the photovoltaic module 115 does not recede behind the front face delimited by the bar 101.

[0097] In these embodiments, the front surface of the photovoltaic module 115 is more exposed to light due to less shading. Note that if the photovoltaic module 115 is bifacial, this preferential exposure of the front surface will result in more shading on the rear surface. However, the front surface of the module 115 is more efficient at converting solar energy into electrical energy than the rear surface of the module 115. Thus, this preferential exposure of the front surface of the module 115 to light will help increase power generation, even if the rear surface of the module 115 is in shadow.

[0098] It should be noted that such a solution does not require much bifaciality, if the front surface 115 of the module is preferentially exposed to the light. In other words, the positioning of the photovoltaic module 115 does not depend on whether it is bifacial or not. Therefore, a wide selection of photovoltaic modules 115 for the system 100 or 200 is possible, including photovoltaic modules 115 with particularly low economic cost.

[0099] When installing the photovoltaic power generation systems 100 and 200 including at least one row of modules 115, the front faces of the modules 115 can be oriented depending on the performance selection of the systems 100 and 200. For example, the front faces of the modules 115 can be oriented from a due east direction to a due west direction. Thus, there is a great deal of freedom in the orientation of the row of modules 115. Thus, depending on the orientation of the photovoltaic power generation system 100 or 200 and the choice of the side of the bar 101 that is aligned with the front face of the modules 115, a wide variety of electrical profiles are available. In particular, such orientation flexibility allows, for example, - to adjust the systems 100 and 200 to the specific spatial constraints of the installation site; and / or - To position systems 100 and 200 to reduce exposure to strong prevailing winds It is used for.

[0100] In some variations, when the installation site 102 is agricultural land, orientation flexibility is utilized to install rows in a straight line, for example, from south to north. Such solar power generation systems 100 and 200 are preferably installed so that the agricultural land receives a uniform amount of light.

[0101] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 21-23, the system 100 or 200 also comprises at least one second cross member 301. In particular, such second cross member 301 is included in the structure 110 or 210.

[0102] In these embodiments, the second cross member 301 is positioned below the photovoltaic module 115. In this configuration, the photovoltaic system 100 or 200 is on one mounting surface 102 and the module 115 is positioned on the opposite side of the surface 102. The second cross member 301 has two ends (not shown), each end having a fastener. Each fastener is configured to fasten a respective end of the second cross member 301 to a bar 101 of the system 100 or 200. It is noted that the second cross member 301 is positioned and fastened between at least two bars 101.

[0103] In these embodiments, if the photovoltaic module 115 is rectangular with two short sides and two long sides, the short sides of the photovoltaic module 115 rest along the second cross-member 301. In this way, the risk of the photovoltaic module 115 moving vertically downwards and slipping, especially during installation of the photovoltaic system 100 or 200, is reduced.

[0104] There are several possible embodiments for the shape of the cross-sectional profile of the second cross member 301. These various embodiments are shown in Figs.

[0105] In some embodiments, the second cross member 301 has a cross-sectional profile shape of: - C-shape, as shown in the top two shapes of Figure 21, or - An inverted U-shape, as shown in the bottom three shapes of Figure 21 It is.

[0106] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Fig. 22, the second cross member 301 also has an upper rim in contact with the photovoltaic module 115 and a lower rim configured to hold the electrical cable 302 that connects to the photovoltaic module 115. The lower rim is preferably a rail. Note that the lower rim is determined by a width and a height. In this way, the electrical cable 302 is protected and oriented according to the given constraints of the use of the photovoltaic system 100 or 200.

[0107] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Fig. 22, the width of the lower edge of the second cross-member 301 shown on the left side of Fig. 22 is greater than the width of the lower edge of the second cross-member 301 shown on the center and right sides, respectively, of Fig. 22. It can also be seen that the height of the lower edge of the second cross-member 301 shown on the right side of Fig. 22 is greater than the height of the lower edge of the second cross-member 301 shown on the center and left sides, respectively, of Fig. 22.

[0108] When the modules 115 are connected in series, the length of the positive cable of the photovoltaic module 115 is different from the length of the negative cable 302 of the photovoltaic module 115, preferably shorter or longer than the negative cable. The connectors (not shown) between the modules 115 are therefore protected by the second cross member 301. The modules 115 are connected in series in a chain known as a "string", known to those skilled in the art. In other words, the positive cable 302 of the first module 115 is connected to the negative cable 302 of the second module 115 via a connector. In this configuration, if the length of the positive cable of the first module 115 is equal to the length of the negative cable 302 of the second module 115, the connectors of these two cables 302 reach the bar 101. Such an arrangement of the connectors must be avoided in certain cases, especially when the cable 302 is placed at the bottom of the module 115, i.e. at the short side placed facing the ground 102. In this case, the connectors are not protected by the second cross member 301. Therefore, by making a difference in length between the positive cable 302 and the negative cable 302, it is possible to avoid such an arrangement of the connector, thereby making it possible to protect the connector with the second cross member 301.

[0109] In some embodiments (not shown), the second cross member 301 has at least one hole or perforation in the upper or rear rim. Note that the rear rim of the second cross member 301 is on the same side as the junction box of the photovoltaic module 115. The hole in the second cross member 301 is configured to facilitate passage of the electrical cable 302 of the photovoltaic module 115.

[0110] In some embodiments (not shown), the second cross member 301 is configured to at least partially surround at least one bar 101 .

[0111] Therefore, the assembly of the module 115 and the structure 110 or 210 fits much smaller, improving the stability of the system.

[0112] For example, the second cross member 301 has longitudinal and / or transverse slots, it being noted that such slots may be configured to partially or completely surround the bar 101.

[0113] In some embodiments (not shown), the fasteners of the second cross member 301 include at least one intermediate fastener configured to completely surround at least one bar 101 of the structure 110 or 210, thus enhancing the fastening of the cross member to the bar 101.

[0114] In some variations (not shown), the fasteners of the second cross member 301 include at least one L-shaped intermediate fastener, which is an upper portion adapted to be fixed to the bar 101 of the structure 110 or 210, and a lower part perpendicular to the upper part and to the bar 101 and configured to support a second cross member 301 has.

[0115] This makes it possible to strengthen support for the module 101 by the structure 110 or 210 and reduce mechanical stress due to gravity.

[0116] In particular, if the structure 110 or 210 comprises two bars 101, with two brackets rigidly attached to each bar 101, the brackets provide support for the ends of the cross members 301. It should be noted that the rigid attachment of the brackets to the bars 101 can be achieved by any means known to those skilled in the art, for example by bolts configured to attach the bar 101 to the top of the brackets.

[0117] In some embodiments, such as the one shown in Figure 23, the second cross member 301 is at least partially made of a light reflective material and has a C-shaped cross-sectional profile. Light rays are shown in Figure 23 as straight arrows. For example, Figure 23 shows indirect light radiation to the photovoltaic module 105. The indirect light radiation is the reflection of one or more light rays that directly strike the rear surface of the reflective second cross member 301.

[0118] In some embodiments, such as those shown in Figures 1 and 13-15, the system 100 or 200 does not have a horizontal element connecting two bars 101, such as a beam, cross member, brace or brace, located on the part of the module 115 that does not face the installation ground 102. In other words, no horizontal element connecting two bars 101 or two parallel bars 101 is located on the part of the module 115 that is furthest from the ground 102. For example, if the module is rectangular, the photovoltaic system 100 or 200 does not have a horizontal element connecting two bars that are located on the short side of the module 115 that does not face the installation ground 102. In other words, no horizontal element connecting two parallel bars 101 is located on the short side of the module 115 that is furthest from the ground.

[0119] Thus, the amount of installation material is reduced, which leads to lower installation costs and reduced environmental impact. Furthermore, the photovoltaic system 100 or 200 allows for better management of the light incident on the photovoltaic module 115, especially reducing the shadows caused by the use of more complex structures with top horizontal elements. In fact, such a system 100 or 200 allows for maximum solar exposure in front of and behind the module, thus increasing the amount of electricity generated.

[0120] 24 is a schematic diagram of an optional embodiment of the method 400 that is the subject of the present invention. The method 400 is a method for assembling a fixed vertical solar power system. The assembling method 400 includes at least: - Step 401 of firmly attaching the structural base to the installation surface; - supporting 402 at least one photovoltaic module on a structure; - positioning the structure on the structural base according to variable angular positions 403; and - Fixing the angular position of the structure on the structural base 404 Includes.

[0121] In the mounting step 401, the structural base is firmly attached to the mounting surface using, for example, stakes.

[0122] In a supporting step 402, the photovoltaic module is attached to a structure such that the photovoltaic module is supported by the structure.

[0123] Note that these steps may be performed sequentially or in a different order.

[0124] Therefore, for example, it is possible to select to perform a step of positioning the structure on a structural base and then to perform a step of fixing the photovoltaic power generation module to the structure.

[0125] In a positioning step 403, the structure is positioned on the structural base according to variable angular positions. For example, the various angles determining the angular positions are included in a plane generally perpendicular to the installation surface. The selection of the angular positions is selected, for example, according to the steepness of the slope of the installation site. In some variations, determining at least one angular position determined by various perpendicular planes of the system, for example perpendicular to the installation surface, is performed, for example, with reference to obstacles at the installation site.

[0126] In the fixing step 404, the angular position of the structure on the structural base is fixed. In some variations, the angular position of the structure is partially fixed. In other words, the structure has angular mobility, which is only effective under certain conditions. In particular, such partial mobility occurs when the system is subjected to certain stresses. For example, if the installation site is subjected to an earthquake or ground shaking, the angular position of the structure changes depending on the mechanical stresses applied to the system. In other words, in the absence of such mechanical stresses, the angular position of the structure is constant.

[0127] In some embodiments, the method 400 includes: - A process of firmly attaching the structural base to the installation surface; - positioning the template on a first structural base; - attaching a second structural base to the mounting surface according to the positioning of the template; - a step of firmly attaching the second structural base to a mounting surface; - removing the template; - positioning the structure on the structural base according to variable angular positions; - supporting the photovoltaic module on a structure; and - Fixing the angular position of the structure on the structural base Includes.

[0128] In some variations, the step of positioning the template is not performed in the implementation method 400. Instead, the positioning of the second structural base is determined by a high-precision position detection system, such as a "GPS" system, also known as a navigation assistant.

[0129] The means of the systems 100 and 200 are configured to perform the steps of the method 400 and its embodiments described above, and the method 400 and its various embodiments can preferably be performed by means of the systems 100 and 200.

Claims

1. A fixed vertical solar power generation system having at least - structure (110, 210), - a photovoltaic module (115) supported on said structure, a structural base (120, 220) configured to be rigidly attached to a mounting surface (102); - positioning means (125) for positioning said structure on said structural base, said positioning means being at least free to rotate and adapted to position said structure according to variable angular positions to be installed; and - means (130) for fixing the angular position of the positioning means for positioning the structure relative to the structural base; A solar power generation system (100, 200) comprising:

2. - said structure (110) comprises at least one bar (101) configured to rigidly attach to at least one module (115); - said structural base (120) has said positioning means (125) for positioning said structure; The system (100) of claim 1.

3. 3. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the positioning means (125) has a housing (106) forming a shoulder (107), and the bar (101) is shaped (108) to mate with the housing.

4. 3. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the positioning means (125) also comprises at least one slot (109, 121) configured to allow the bar (101) to be positioned according to a plurality of angular positions.

5. - said structure comprises at least one bar (101) configured to rigidly attach to at least one module (115); - positioning means (125) are arranged between said structural base (120) and said structure (110); The system (100) of claim 1.

6. 6. A system (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein one of the elements of the positioning means (125) and the bar (101) has a hole (117, 122) and the other element has a shaft (123), said hole and said shaft forming a pivot link having an axis of rotation (B) perpendicular to the axis (A) of the bar.

7. 3. The system (100) of claim 1 or 2, further comprising additional means (126) for positioning the structure (110) on the structural base (120), the additional means being free-rotating and having elements (114, 116) each defining a separate surface, the surfaces being parallel and in contact and configured to form a pivot link having an axis of rotation (C) that intersects the mounting surface (102).

8. - said structure (210) comprises at least one cross member (201); - said structural base (220) has means (225) for positioning said cross-members; The system (200) of claim 1.

9. 9. The system (200) of claim 8, wherein one of the positioning means (225) and the cross member (201) has a hole (203) and the other has a shaft, the hole and the shaft forming a pivot link having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the axis (D) of the structural base (220).

10. 3. The system (100, 200) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the solar photovoltaic module (115) is rectangular, and the module is fixed to the structural base (120, 220) and oriented such that one short side of the module faces the installation surface (102).

11. A method for assembling a fixed vertical solar power system, comprising: - rigidly attaching the structural base to a mounting surface (401); - supporting (402) at least one photovoltaic module on a structure; - positioning (403) said structure on said structural base according to at least one variable angular position; - fixing (404) the angular position of the structure on the structural base; The method (400) is characterized by including:

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