Fixing device for fixing solar cell modules

Abstract

The present invention provides a hook (10), the hook (10) having a fastening portion (12) configured to fasten a mounting rail (72), the hook (10) having at least one first leg (16) and at least one second leg (18), the at least one first leg (16) having at least one latch-forming portion (22), and at least one base plate (46), the at least one base plate (46) being adapted to engage with the hook (10). and a base plate (46) having at least one latch bar (48) for fastening the solar cell module to the roof, the at least one latch bar (48) having at least one latch forming portion (50), wherein the first leg (16) and the second leg (18) of the hook (10) are connectable to the base plate (46), and the latch forming portion (22) of the first leg (16) is hookable with the latch forming portion (50) of the latch bar (48).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastening device for fastening a solar module to a roof. In particular, the fastening device can be used to fasten a solar module to a pitched roof. For example, the fastening device can be connected to the roof rafters of the roof structure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] The problem set forth by the present invention is to provide a fastening device for fastening solar modules to a roof, which can be quickly and easily mounted and removed from the roof. [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] The problem is solved by a fixing device having the features of claim 1.

[0004] Further embodiments are set forth in the dependent claims.

[0005] The fixation device according to the invention comprises: at least one hook, the at least one hook having at least one fastening portion configured to fasten a mounting rail, the hook having at least one first leg and at least one second leg, the at least one first leg having at least one latch-forming portion; at least one base plate having at least one latch bar for engaging with the hook, the at least one latch bar having at least one latch formation; the first leg and the second leg of the hook are connectable to the base plate; The latch formation on the first leg is capable of engaging with the latch formation on the latch bar.

[0006] The fastening device according to the present invention can be quickly and easily attached to a roof. The fastening device is configured so that it can be fastened to the roof by only a single fastening means. The base plate can be connected to the roof by said fastening means, for example, a screw. The at least one hook can be quickly and easily coupled to the base plate without using additional tools.

[0007] The at least one hook and the base plate may be configured such that the at least one hook can be engaged with the at least one base plate by a pivotal movement. The second leg may be coupled to the base plate. Following engagement with the base plate, the second leg may perform a pivotal movement relative to the base plate. This pivotal movement may engage the latch formation of the at least one latch bar and the latch formation of the at least one leg with each other. The first leg may be configured such that the latch formation of the leg can be engaged with the latch formation of the latch bar.

[0008] The at least one base plate may have at least one receiving section for an end of the second leg. The end of the second leg may be hooked into the at least one receiving section. The receiving section and / or the end of the second leg may be configured to form a pivot point for pivoting the hook. The end or free end of the second leg may be provided with a pivot surface. The at least one receiving section may extend over part of the longitudinal extent or over the entire longitudinal extent of the base plate. The at least one receiving section may be configured as a receiving rail.

[0009] The at least one receiving portion may have at least one engaging hook. The second leg may engage with the at least one base plate via the at least one engaging hook for coupling. The at least one receiving portion may further have at least one support bar. The at least one support bar may extend at an angle relative to the base plate. In particular, the at least one support bar may extend at an angle of 90° relative to the base plate. The at least one support bar may have a curved wall surface and / or may transition to the bottom of the receiving portion in a curved manner. The curved portion of the support bar may cooperate with a curved pivot surface of the second leg to pivot the hook. The at least one engaging hook and the at least one support surface may form a receiving space therebetween for receiving the free end of the second leg.

[0010] The second leg may have at least one engaging lug for coupling with at least one base plate. The at least one engaging lug may be configured on a free end or end of the second leg. The at least one engaging lug may be configured on a side of the second leg that does not face the first leg, i.e., on the outer side of the second leg. The side of the second leg that faces the first leg, i.e., on the inner side of the second leg, may have a notch. This notch allows the second leg to be supported by at least one support bar of the receiving part.

[0011] The at least one latch formation on the first leg and the at least one latch formation on the at least one latch bar may be configured to be complementary to one another. The at least one latch formation on the first leg and the at least one latch formation on the at least one latch bar may each have at least one latch protrusion. The at least one latch formation on the first leg and the at least one latch formation on the at least one latch bar may each have at least one latch notch.

[0012] The latch formation of the first leg may have at least one pivot lug. The at least one pivot lug may be configured on a latch protrusion. The latch formation of the at least one latch bar may have an engagement lug. The at least one engagement lug may be configured on a latch notch. The at least one engagement lug may be engaged with the at least one pivot lug, thereby forming a pivot point for pivoting the hook.

[0013] At least one latch formation may be provided on the inside of at least one latch bar. The latch formation may be provided on the side of the latch bar facing the at least one receiving portion. At least one latch formation on the first leg may be provided on the side of the first leg not facing the second leg, i.e., on the outside of the first leg. The latch formation on the first leg may be provided on an end of the first leg. In other words, the latch formation on the first leg may be provided in the region of or near the free end of the first leg. Additionally or alternatively, at least one latch formation may be provided on the outside of the latch bar. In this case, at least one latch formation may be provided on the inside of one of the legs.

[0014] The at least one latch bar may extend at an angle relative to the at least one base plate. The at least one latch bar may extend at a substantially 90° angle relative to the base plate. The at least one latch bar may be integral with the at least one base plate.

[0015] The at least one latch formation on the first leg may include at least one latch lug. The at least one latch formation on the first leg may include at least one guide ramp. The at least one guide ramp may extend between the free end of the first leg and the latch lug.

[0016] At least one latch formation of at least one latch bar may have at least one latch lug. At least one latch formation of at least one latch bar may have a guide ramp. The at least one guide ramp may extend between the free end of the latch bar and the latch lug. The guide ramp of the latch bar is longer than the guide ramp of the first leg. The guide ramp of the first leg and the guide ramp of the latch bar can cooperate to engage the first leg and the latch formation of the latch bar with each other. When the latch formation of the first leg and the latch formation of the latch bar are engaged with each other, the guide ramp of the first leg can slide along the guide ramp of the latch bar. This allows the first leg to elastically deflect before the latch formation of the first leg engages with the latch formation of the latch bar.

[0017] The at least one base plate and the at least one hook may be configured to allow the hook to be attached to the base plate at different heights, thereby allowing adjustment of the distance between the hook and the roof to which the fastening device is to be attached. No tools are required for adjustment to different heights. Furthermore, no moving parts are required on the hook and / or base plate to allow the hook height to be adjusted.

[0018] The base plate may have at least one first latch bar and at least one second latch bar. The two latch bars may have at least one latch formation. The latch formation may be configured on opposing sides of the first latch bar and the second latch bar. In other words, the latch formation may be configured on the inner sides of the two latch bars.

[0019] The second leg may have a latch formation. The latch formation may be configured on a side of the second leg that is not facing the first leg, i.e., on the outside of the second leg. The latch formation on the second leg may be configured on a free end of the second leg. The latch formation on the first leg may be coupled to the latch formation on the first latch bar, and the latch formation on the second leg may be coupled to the latch formation on the second latch bar.

[0020] The base plate may have a longitudinal axis. The base plate may be configured to allow a position of the hook to be freely selected along the longitudinal axis of the base plate within a longitudinal extent or within an axial extent of the base plate. The at least one latch bar may be configured to allow a position of the hook to be freely selected along the longitudinal axis of the base plate for engaging with the latch bar.

[0021] The base plate may have at least one fastening opening. The base plate may have a plurality of fastening openings. The fastening openings may be configured on the base plate so as to be offset from one another along the longitudinal axis of the base plate. The fastening openings may be located on the longitudinal axis of the base plate. The fastening position of the base plate on the rafter can be adjusted by the fastening openings. The fastening position of the base plate on the rafter can be changed depending on the fastening opening selected. In particular, the fastening position of the base plate can be changed in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the roof batten. The longitudinal axis of the base plate and the longitudinal axis of the roof batten may be substantially parallel to one another. The at least one latch bar may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base plate.

[0022] The position of the hook relative to the rafter and / or roof batten can be adjusted steplessly within a predetermined range by freely selecting the position of the hook on the base plate and by adjusting the fixing position of the base plate on the rafter.

[0023] The fastening device can be attached to the rafter by only a single fastening element, which can be, for example, a screw, or in other words, the fastening device, i.e., the hook and the base plate, can be configured such that a single fastening element is sufficient to fasten the fastening device to the rafter.

[0024] The base plate has an upper side and a lower side. The upper side of the base plate may be provided with at least one latch bar and / or at least one receptacle. The lower side of the base plate is adapted to contact the rafter.

[0025] At least one base plate may have at least one protruding element on its underside. The at least one protruding element may include a protrusion, a rib, a web, or a bar. When fastening the base plate with the fastening element, the at least one protruding element may be pressed into the rafter to hold the base plate in place. Because the base plate is held in place by the at least one protruding element and, in particular, is prevented from twisting, a single fastening element is sufficient to fasten the base plate to the rafter.

[0026] The at least one protruding element may extend over the entire longitudinal extent of the base plate. However, it is also conceivable that the at least one protruding element extends over only a portion of the longitudinal extent of the base plate. The at least one base plate may have a plurality of longitudinally extending protruding elements on its underside.

[0027] The at least one fastening device may have at least one mounting plate. The at least one mounting plate may function as a height compensation. This is the case, for example, when multiple fastening devices are used to secure the solar module and there is a height difference between the hooks of each fastening device. The at least one mounting plate may abut the underside of the base plate. The at least one mounting plate may be located between the base plate and the rafter. The at least one mounting plate may have a predetermined opening pattern. Multiple mounting plates may be provided, which may have different thicknesses, thereby compensating for different height differences. The at least one mounting plate may have at least one protruding element on its underside. The underside of the mounting plate may contact the rafter. The protruding element may be pressed into the rafter when securing the base plate.

[0028] In the following, exemplary embodiments according to the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 3] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 5] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 6] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 8] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 9] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 10]1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are views of a fixation device according to a first embodiment; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a view of a fixation device according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] 1 shows a perspective view of a hook 10, which is part of a fastening device for fastening a solar module to a roof. The hook 10 has a fastening part 12 to which a mounting rail for the solar module can be attached. The fastening part 12 has an opening 14 configured in the form of an elongated hole. A fastening element can be guided into the opening 14 to connect the hook 10 to a mounting rail (not shown). The surface of the fastening part 12 can be knurled.

[0031] The hook 10 has a first leg 16 and a second leg 18. The legs 16 and 18 are aligned at an angle to each other. The hook 10 further has a connecting portion 20 that connects the fixed portion 12 to the legs 16, 18. The connecting portion 20 extends in a U- or V-shape between the legs 16, 18 and the fixed portion 12. Due to the shape of the connecting portion 20, the fixed portion 12 is positioned above the legs 16, 18.

[0032] The leg 16 has a latch formation 22. The latch formation 22 is located on a side 24 of the leg 16 that faces away from the leg 18. The side 24 of the leg 16 can also be called the outer side of the leg 16. The latch formation 22 is located in the region of the end or free end of the leg 16.

[0033] The leg 18 has an engagement lug 26. The engagement lug 26 is configured on the free end of the leg 18. The engagement lug 26 is provided on the side 28 of the leg 18 that faces away from the leg 16, i.e., on the outer side of the leg 18. The free end of the leg 18 is further provided with a curved pivot surface 30 that can contact a base plate (not shown) of a fixing device. The leg 18 is further configured with a notch 32 located on the side 34 of the leg 18 facing the leg 16, i.e., on the inner side of the leg 18. The curved pivot surface 30 extends from the engagement lug 26 toward the inner side 34 of the leg 18.

[0034] 2 shows a side view of the hook 10. The fastening part 12 has serrations on its upper side 36, i.e., the side facing away from the legs 16, 18. Due to the U- or V-shape of the connecting part 20, the fastening part 12 is located above the legs 16, 18. In other words, the fastening part 12 and the legs 16, 18 are located at the free ends of the U- or V-shape.

[0035] The latch formation 22 is defined on the outer side 24 of the leg 16. The latch formation 22 is defined by a latch lug 38 and a latch protrusion 40. The latch protrusion 40 and the latch lug 38 define a latch notch 42 therebetween. Abutting the latch lug 38 is a guide ramp 44 that extends toward the free end of the leg 16.

[0036] The leg 18 has an engagement lug 26 on the outer side 28 of its free end. Starting from the engagement lug 26, a curved pivot surface 30 on the free end of the leg 18 extends toward the inner side 34 of the leg 18. The inner side 34 of the leg 18 has a notch 32. The first leg 16 is constructed with a thinner or lower material strength than the second leg 18. This allows the first leg 16 to have elasticity or flexibility. This elasticity can generate a biasing force that can hold the leg 16 in its latched position.

[0037] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the base plate 46. The base plate 46 has a longitudinal axis L. The base plate 46 has a latch bar 48. The latch bar 48 has a latch formation 50. The latch formation 50 can engage with the latch formation 22 on the leg 16 of the hook 10 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). The base plate 46 also has a receiving portion 52 for the free end of the leg 18. The receiving portion 52 has a hook 54 and a support bar 56. The engaging hook 54 and the support bar 56 define a receiving space for the free end of the leg 18 therebetween. The latch formation 50 is formed on a side 58 of the latch bar 48 opposite the receiving portion 52, i.e., on the inner side of the latch bar 48. A fastening opening 60 is formed on the base plate 46 between the latch bar 48 and the receiving portion 52. According to this embodiment, the base plate 46 has three fastening openings 60. The fastening openings 60 are configured on the base plate 46 to be offset relative to one another along the longitudinal axis L. The fastening openings 60 allow the base plate 46 to be fastened to a roof structure or arrangement (not shown). The fastening openings 60 allow the fastening position of the base plate 46 on the roof rafters (not shown) to be changed depending on the fastening openings 60 selected for fastening.

[0038] The latch bar 48 and the receiving portion 52 are located on the upper side of the base plate 46. The underside of the base plate 46 can come into contact with a rafter (not shown). The base plate 46 has two ribs 46a and 46b on its underside. When the base plate 46 is fixed, the two ribs 46a and 46b are pressed into the rafter. The ribs 46a and 46b hold the base plate 46 in place on the rafter (not shown), particularly preventing twisting.

[0039] 4 and 5 show side and top views of the base plate 46. The underside of the base plate 46 is formed with protruding ribs 46a and 46b. The base plate 46 includes a latch bar 48 and a receiving portion 52. The latch bar 48 extends substantially at a 90° angle relative to the base plate 46. The latch bar 48 includes a latch formation 50 on an inner side 58 thereof. The latch formation 50 is formed by a latch lug 62 and a latch protrusion 64 that define a latch notch 66 therebetween. A guide ramp 68 extends between the latch lug 62 and the free end of the latch bar 48. The latch bar 48 and receiving portion 52 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the base plate 46.

[0040] The receiving portion 52 is formed by an engagement hook 54 and a support bar 56. The engagement hook 54 points towards the support bar 56. The engagement hook 54 and the support bar define a receiving space between them for the free ends of the legs 18 of the hook 10.

[0041] 6 shows a view of a fixing device 1000 including a hook 10 and a base plate 46. The legs 18 of the hook 10 are inserted with their free ends into the receptacle 52. The engagement lugs 26 then engage the engagement hooks 54 of the receptacle 52 from behind. The pivot surfaces 30 contact the bottom of the receptacle 52 and the support bar 56. The guide ramps 44 on the free ends of the legs 16 abut against the guide ramps 68 on the free end of the latch bar 48.

[0042] 6 shows the state of the hook 10 and base plate 46 just before the latch formation 22 of the leg 16 is engaged with the latch formation 50 of the latch bar 48. To engage the latch formations 22 and 50 with each other, the hook 10 is further pivoted in the direction of arrow P until the latch lug 38 engages the latch protrusion 66 of the latch bar 48 from behind. In the engaged state, the latch protrusion 40 is received in the latch notch 66 of the latch bar 48.

[0043] The connection between the hook 10 and the base plate 46 attached to the roof structure (not shown) is carried out as follows: the free end of the leg 18 is inserted into the receiving portion 52 with the engagement lug 46. The pivot surface 30 comes into contact with the support bar 56 and the bottom of the receiving portion 52. By pivoting in the direction of arrow P, the leg 16 is brought into contact with the latch bar 48. The latch formation 22 of the leg 16 and the latch formation 50 on the inner side 58 of the latch bar 48 then engage with each other. This firmly connects the hook 10 to the base plate 46.

[0044] 7 to 9 show different views of the fastening device 1000, in which the hook 10 is securely connected to the base plate 46. To connect the hook 10 to the base plate 46, the free end of the leg 18 is inserted into the receiving portion 52 so that the engagement lug 26 engages the hook 54 from behind. The receiving portion 52 of the base plate 46, together with the free end of the leg 18 and the pivot surface 30, form a pivot point about which the hook 10 can pivot. The hook 10 is pivoted about the pivot point so that the latch formation 22 on the outer side 24 of the leg 16 engages with the latch formation 50 on the inner side of the latch bar 48. In the engaged state, the support bar 56 engages with the notch 32 on the inner side 34 of the leg 18. The inner side of the leg 34 thus partially abuts the support bar 56. The hook 10 is supported by the support bar 56. The support bar 56 can also generate a biasing force on the hook 10, which causes the latch formations 22 and 50 to latch together. The position of the hook 10 on the base plate 46 can be freely selected along the longitudinal axis L of the base plate 46. This becomes clear, in particular, when comparing FIGS. 7 and 8. According to FIG. 7, the hook 10 is located in the central area of ​​the base plate 46. According to FIG. 8, the hook 10 is located at the left end of the base plate 46. The ability to select the position of the hook 10 on the base plate 46 facilitates the assembly of the fastening device 1000 and its fastening to a roof (not shown).

[0045] 10 shows the fastening device 1000 attached to the rafters 70 of a roof structure. The mounting rails 72 can be fitted with frames of photovoltaic modules. The base plate 46 of the fastening device 1000 is connected to the roof structure 70 by fastening elements 74. The hook 10 is coupled to the base plate 46. The mounting rails 72 are attached to the fastening parts 12 of the hooks 10 by fastening elements 76.

[0046] The connection portion 20 of the hook 10 points downward in the direction of the inclination of the rafters 70. The base plate 46 is attached to the roof structure 70 so that the receiving portion 52 is located at the upper end of the base plate 46 and the latch bar 48 is located at the lower end of the base plate 46 in the direction of the inclination of the rafters 70. The base plate 46 is attached to the rafters 70 above the roof battens 78. In a direction perpendicular to the rafters 70, the connection portion 20 of the hook 10 extends above the roof battens 78. The hook 10 or its connection portion 20 allows a predetermined spacing to be set between the rafters 70 and / or the roof battens 78 in the direction perpendicular to the rafters 70. The mounting rail 72 extends parallel to the roof battens 78.

[0047] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the fastening device 1000 mounted on the rafter 70. The base plate 46 of the fastening device 1000 is attached to the rafter 70 above the roof batten 78. The base plate 46, and therefore the fastening device 1000, can be fixed to the rafter 70 with only a single fastening element 74, i.e., one screw. The fastening openings 60 allow the base plate 46 to be mounted at different positions along the longitudinal axis LS of the roof batten 78. The freely selectable position of the hook 10 on the base plate 46 along its longitudinal axis L allows the fastening position of the fastening device 1000 or the hook 10 on the rafter 70 to be adjusted within a predetermined range. This predetermined range is determined by the fastening openings 60, on the one hand, and by the longitudinal extent of the base plate 46, on the other hand. Thus, infinitely adjustable position of the hook 10 can be achieved. The position of the hook 10 can be adjusted, for example, depending on the dimensions of the roof tile (not shown) used.

[0048] FIG. 12 shows an exploded view of the fastening device 1000. The fastening device 1000 includes a mounting plate 80. The mounting plate 80 has a predetermined opening pattern with a plurality of openings through which fastening elements can extend. The mounting plate 80 can be coupled to the base plate 46 and secured to the rafter 70 together with the base plate 46. The mounting plate 80 and the base plate 46 are secured to the rafter 70 with screws 74. The screws 74 are the only screws required to attach the fastening device 1000 to the rafter 70. The screws 74 hold the fastening device 1000 to the rafter 70. The screws 74 were inserted into the fastening openings 60 blocked by the screws 74 shown in FIG. 11. Therefore, the screws 74 are located in the left fastening openings 60 shown in FIG. 11. An additional fastening opening 60 is shown in FIG. 11. The mounting plate 80 can compensate for height differences between the rafter 70 and the hook 10. This is especially true when multiple fixtures 1000 are used to secure the solar modules. Such height differences between the individual fixtures 1000 can be compensated for by one or more mounting plates 80.

[0049] To attach the base plate 46 to the rafter 70, a screw 74 is guided through one of the fastening openings 60 in the base plate 46 and one of the openings in the mounting plate 80 and screwed into the rafter 70. The base plate 46 and the mounting plate 80 are attached to the rafter 70 between two roof battens 78. When the base plate 46 is secured to the rafter 70, the hook 10 is hooked onto the base plate 46 and latched thereto. A fixing bolt 76 can be inserted into the mounting rail 72 and slid into position on the hook 10. The fixing bolt 76 can be guided into the opening 14 and screwed into the nut 82. Alternatively, the fixing bolt 76 can be inserted into the opening 14 in the fixing portion 12 of the hook 10 and temporarily secured to the hook 10 by the nut 82. The mounting rail 72 is then slid onto the fixing bolt 76. The nuts 82 are then tightened to securely connect the mounting rail 72 to the hook 10 or fixed fixture 1000 .

[0050] 13 shows a perspective view of a hook 10 according to a further embodiment. The hook 10 has a fixed portion 12, legs 16, 18, and a connecting portion 20 for connecting the fixed portion 12 to the legs 16, 18. The fixed portion 12 has an opening 14 and an abutment portion 84.

[0051] The outer side 24 of the leg 16 defines a latch formation 22. The latch formation 22 has latch projections 40 and 86 that define a latch notch 88 therebetween. The outer side 28 of the leg 18 also defines a latch formation 90. The latch formation 90 is provided in the region of the free end of the leg 18. The latch formation 90 is formed by two latch projections 94 and 96 that define an invisible latch notch therebetween.

[0052] Figure 14 shows a side view of the hook 10. The lower latch projection 86 shown in Figure 14 is configured with a pivot lug 98. The pivot lug 98 is configured on the side of the latch projection 86 that does not face the latch projection 40. A sloped abutment surface 100 connects to the pivot lug 98 and extends to the end of the leg 16.

[0053] The leg 18 has a latch formation 90 formed on its outer side 28. The latch formation 90 has two latch protrusions 94 and 96 that define a latch notch 102 therebetween. The leg 18 is curved. The second leg 18 is thinner or made of a material with lower strength than the first leg 16. This allows the second leg 18 to have elasticity that biases it into its latched position.

[0054] 15 shows a perspective view of a base plate 46 according to the second embodiment. The base plate 46 has a first latch bar 48 and a second latch bar 104. The first latch bar 48 has a latch formation 50 on its side 58, i.e., its inner side, facing the second latch bar 104. The second latch bar 104 has a latch formation 108 on its side 106 facing the first latch bar 48. A fastening opening 60 can be seen on the base plate 46 between the two latch bars 48 and 104.

[0055] The latch bar 48 and the receiving portion 52 are located on the upper side of the base plate 46. The underside of the base plate can come into contact with a rafter (not shown). The base plate 46 has two ribs 46a and 46b on its underside. When the base plate 46 is fixed, the two ribs 46a and 46b are pressed into the rafter. The ribs 46a and 46b hold the base plate 46 in place on the rafter (not shown) and, in particular, prevent twisting.

[0056] FIG. 16 shows a side view of base plate 46. Protruding ribs 46a and 46b are formed on the underside of base plate 46. Latch bar 48 and latch bar 104 have opposing latch formations 50 and 108. Latch formation 50 of latch bar 48 has latch notches 110 and 112 and latch protrusions 114 and 116. Latch formation 108 of latch bar 104 has latch notches 118, 120, 122, and 124. Latch formation 108 also has latch protrusions 126, 128, 130, and 132. Latch protrusions 118 and 122 are identical, but are offset from one another on latch bar 104. Latch notches 120 and 124 are also identical and offset from one another on latch bar 104. Latch projections 126 and 130 are identical in configuration, but their positions on latch bar 104 are offset relative to one another.

[0057] The latch notches 110, 112 have engagement lugs 134, 136 at their lower end regions. The engagement lugs 134, 136 can be engaged with the pivot lug 98 of the hook 10. Either the engagement lug 134 or 136 can be engaged with the pivot lug 98 so that a pivot point is formed for pivoting the hook 10.

[0058] The notches 120, 124 of the latch formation 108 each have a sloped bottom. The latch projections 126 and 130 have a sloped front face. The sloped bottoms of the latch notches 120, 124 and the sloped front faces 126, 130 are sloped in opposite directions to each other.

[0059] Latch formation 50 of latch bar 48 is configured for engagement with latch formation 22 of leg 16. Latch formation 108 of latch bar 104 is configured for engagement with latch formation 90 of leg 18.

[0060] FIG. 17 shows a top view of the base plate 46. The base plate 46 has a longitudinal axis L. The base plate 46 has latch bars 48 and 104 with latch formations 50 and 108 on inner sides 58 and 106. The latch bars 48 and 104 extend parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the base plate 46. Fastening openings 60 are defined in the base plate 46 between the latch bars 48 and 104. The fastening openings 60 are configured to be offset from one another along the longitudinal axis L on the base plate 46. The fastening openings 60 allow the fastening position of the base plate 46 on the roof rafters (not shown) to be varied depending on the fastening openings 60 selected for fastening.

[0061] 18 to 23 show different views of the fastening device 1000 in which the hook 10 is attached at different positions or heights on the base plate. The hook 10 can be connected to the base plate 46 at two different positions. Thus, the fastening device 1000 allows the height of the hook 10 to be adjusted relative to the roof rafter or the base plate 46. Referring to FIGS. 18 to 21, the connection of the hook 10 to the base plate 46 at different heights will be described. The position of the hook 10 on the base plate 46 can be freely selected along the longitudinal axis L of the base plate 46. The base plate 46 is configured so that the hook 10 can be hooked at different positions on the base plate 46 along the longitudinal axis L of the base plate 46.

[0062] 18 shows a perspective view of a fastening device 1000 in which a hook 10 having a latch formation 22 on a leg 16 is hooked onto a latch formation 50 of a latch bar 48. In the position shown, the hook 10 has not yet been finally connected to the base plate 46.

[0063] 19 shows a side view of a fastening device 1000 with a hook 10 having two legs 16 and 18 inserted into the intermediate space between the latch bars 48 and 104 of the base plate 46. The pivot lug 98 on the latch projection 86 of the latch formation 50 on the leg 16 engages with the engagement lug 134 on the latch notch 110 of the latch bar 48. The latch formation 90 of the leg 18 contacts the inner side 106 of the latch bar 104 below the latch formation 108. The angled position of the hook 10 indicates that the hook 10 has not yet been finally latched with the base plate 46. For final latching, the hook 10 is pivoted in the direction of arrow P about the pivot point formed by the pivot lug 98 and the engagement lug 134 so that the latch formation 90 of the leg 18 can be latched with the latch formation 108 of the latch bar 104. Pivoting in the direction of arrow P moves second leg 18 upwardly to latch formation 90 of latch bar 104, allowing leg 18 to resiliently deflect before latch formation 90 of leg 18 engages latch formation 108 of latch bar 104.

[0064] Hook 10 can be latched with base plate 46 in a first or lower position because hook 10 is inserted into lower latch notch 110 by latch protrusion 86. Latch notch 110 in latch bar 48, latch notches 118 and 120 in latch bar 104, and latch protrusion 126 in latch bar 104 define the lower or first position of hook 10. Latch notch 112 in latch bar 48, latch notches 122 and 124 in latch bar 104, and latch protrusion 130 in latch bar 104 define the upper or second position of hook 10.

[0065] Figure 20 shows a perspective view of the fixation device 1000. The hook 10 is hooked with the base plate 46. According to Figure 20, the hook 10 is in its lower or first position.

[0066] 21 shows a side view of the fixation device 1000 with the hook 10 latched with the base plate 46 in the downward or first position. In this position, the latch protrusions 40 and 86 on the latch formation 22 of the leg 16 engage with the latch notches 110, 112 in the latch formation 50 on the latch bar 48. The latch formation 90 of the leg 18 engages with the latch notches 118 and 120 in the latch formation 108 on the latch bar 104. In other words, the latch formation 90 of the leg 18 engages with the lower latch notches 118 and 120 on the inner side 106 of the latch bar 104.

[0067] 22 and 23 show the fastening device 1000 with the hook 10 in the upper or second position. The latch protrusion 86 of the latch formation 22 engages with the latch notch 112 of the latch formation 50 on the latch bar 48. The latch protrusion 40 of the latch formation 22 is positioned above the protrusion 114 which engages with the latch notch 88 of the latch formation 22. The latch formation 90 of the leg 18 engages with the latch notches 122 and 124 of the latch formation 108 on the latch bar 104. Thus, the latch formation 90 engages with the upper latch notches 122 and 124.

[0068] 24 and 25 show views of the fastening device 1000 attached to a rafter 70 of the roof structure. The base plate 46 of the fastening device 1000 is connected to the roof structure 70 by a fastening element 74. The mounting rail 72 is attached to the fixing portion 12 of the hook 10 by a fastening element 76. The connection portion 20 of the hook 10 faces downward in the direction of the inclination of the rafter 70. The base plate 46 is attached to the roof structure 70 so that the latch bar 104 is located at the upper end of the base plate 46 and the latch bar 48 is located at the lower end of the base plate 46 in the direction of the inclination of the rafter 70. The base plate 46 is attached to the rafter 70 above the roof batten 78. The connection portion 20 of the hook 10 extends above the roof batten 78 in a direction perpendicular to the rafter 70. The fastening device 1000 can be fixed to the rafter 70 with only a single fastening element 74, i.e., a single screw.

[0069] 24 and 25, the hook 10 is hooked to the base plate 46 in a first or lower position, which is a lower position, i.e., a closer distance between the hook 10 and the rafter 70 than in the upper and second positions.

[0070] FIG. 26 shows an exploded view of the fastening device 1000. The fastening device 1000 includes a mounting plate 80. The mounting plate 80 and the base plate 46 are fixed to the rafter 70 by screws 74. The screws 74 are the only screws required to fasten the fastening device 1000 to the rafter 70. To fasten the base plate 46 to the rafter 70, the screws 74 are guided through one of the fastening openings 60 in the base plate 46 and one opening in the mounting plate 80 and screwed into the rafter 70. Similarly, according to this embodiment, the mounting plate 80 can compensate for the height difference between the hook 10 and the rafter 70. That is, the mounting plate 80 is used as a height compensation.

[0071] The base plate 46 and mounting plate 80 are attached to the rafters 70 between two roof battens 78. When the base plate 46 is attached to the rafters 70, the hook 10 is hooked onto the base plate 46 and latched thereby. The fixing bolt 76 is then inserted into the opening 14 on the fixed portion 12 of the hook 10 and temporarily secured to the hook 10 by a nut 82. The fixing bolt 76 can be inserted into the mounting rail 72 and slid into position on the hook 10. The fixing bolt 76 can be guided into the opening 14 and threaded into the nut 82. Alternatively, the fixing bolt 76 can be inserted into the opening 14 on the fixed portion 12 of the hook 10 and temporarily secured to the hook 10 by the nut 82. The mounting rail 72 is then slid onto the fixing bolt 76. The nut 82 is then tightened, firmly connecting the mounting rail 72 to the hook 10 or the fastening device 1000.

Claims

1. A fixing device (1000) for fixing a solar cell module to a roof, the fixing device (1000) comprising: at least one hook (10), the hook (10) having at least one fastening portion (12) configured for fastening to a mounting rail (72), the hook (10) having at least one first leg (16) and at least one second leg (18), the at least one first leg (16) having at least one latch-forming portion (22); at least one base plate (46), the base plate (46) having at least one first latch bar (48) for engaging with the hook (10), the at least one first latch bar (48) having at least one latch formation (50); the first leg (16) and the second leg (18) of the hook (10) are connectable to the base plate (46); The latch formation (22) of the first leg (16) is capable of engaging with the latch formation (50) of the first latch bar (48); the at least one hook (10) and the at least one base plate (46) are configured such that the hook (10) can be latched with the at least one base plate (46) by a pivotal movement of the at least one hook (10); the at least one base plate (46) has at least one receiving portion (52) for the free end of the second leg (18); The receiving portion (52) comprises at least one engaging hook (54) and a support bar (56) for supporting the second leg (18) therebetween. Fixation device (1000).

2. A fixing device (1000) as described in claim 1, wherein the at least one engagement hook (54) and the support bar (56) are arranged side by side and approximately upright on the at least one base plate (46).

3. 3. The fixing device (1000) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second leg (18) has at least one engagement lug (26) for coupling with the at least one base plate (46).

4. A fixing device (1000) for fixing a solar cell module to a roof, the fixing device (1000) comprising: at least one hook (10), the hook (10) having at least one fastening portion (12) configured for fastening to a mounting rail (72), the hook (10) having at least one first leg (16) and at least one second leg (18), the at least one first leg (16) having at least one latch-forming portion (22), and the at least one second leg (18) having at least one latch-forming portion (90); at least one base plate (46), the base plate (46) having at least one first latch bar (48) and at least one second latch bar (104) for engaging with the hook (10), the at least one first latch bar (48) and the at least one second latch bar (104) each having at least one latch forming portion (50, 108); the first leg (16) and the second leg (18) of the hook (10) are connectable to the base plate (46); The latch formation (22) of the first leg (16) is capable of engaging with the latch formation (50) of the first latch bar (48); The latch formation (90) of the second leg (18) is capable of engaging with the latch formation (108) of the second latch bar (104); The at least one hook (10) and the at least one base plate (46) are configured such that the hook (10) can be latched with the at least one base plate (46) by a pivotal movement of the at least one hook (10). Fixation device (1000).

5. A fixing device (1000) as described in claim 4, wherein the latch forming portion (22) of the first leg (16) and the latch forming portion (90) of the second leg (18) are formed on the respective outer surfaces of the first leg (16) and the second leg (18) that face away from each other, and the latch forming portion (50) of the first latch bar (48) and the latch forming portion (108) of the second latch bar (104) are formed on the respective inner surfaces of the first latch bar (48) and the second latch bar (104) that face each other.

6. 6. A fixing device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one latch forming portion (22) of the first leg (16) and the latch forming portion (50) of the at least one first latch bar (48) each have at least one latch protrusion (40, 64) and / or at least one latch notch (42, 66).

7. 7. A fixing device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one latch forming portion (22) of the first leg (16) and / or the latch forming portion (50) of the at least one first latch bar (48) has at least one guide ramp (44, 68).

8. The fixing device (1000) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one first latch bar (48) extends at an angle relative to the base plate (46).

9. The at least one base plate (46) and the hook (10) are configured to allow the hook to be attached at different positions on the base plate (46). A fixation device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. 10. The fixing device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the base plate (46) is configured such that the position of the hook (10) is freely selectable along the longitudinal axis (L) of the base plate (46) within the axial extent of the base plate (46).

11. The fastening device (1000) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the base plate (46) has at least one fastening opening (60).

12. The fastening device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fastening device (1000) is fastenable to the rafter (70) by means of only a single fastening element (74).

13. The fixation device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the base plate (46) has at least one protruding element (46a, 46b) on its underside.

14. The fixing device (1000) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the fixing device (1000) comprises at least one mounting plate (80).

Images