Connection device for grounding an electrical apparatus and / or creating an equipotential link between conductive elements

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) designed to be placed at least partially between a first part (2) and a second part (3) for grounding electrical equipment and / or creating an equipotential bond between conductive elements: - at least one first automatic connection device (5) designed to automatically make electrical contact with the first part (2) when the said electrical equipment is mounted on the said support structure and - at least one second automatic connection device (6) designed to automatically make electrical contact with the second part (3) when the said electrical equipment is mounted on the said support structure.The connecting device in question is special insofar as it includes at least one return device (10) designed to extend between the first part (2) and the compression piece (4) on the second part (3) and to be compressed when the compression piece (4) is in the compressed position, and when the compression piece (4) is not in the compressed position, at least one return device (10) can hold the compression piece (4) at a predetermined distance from the compressed position.

Description

technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a connection device for grounding electrical equipment and / or creating an equipotential bond between conductive elements. The invention allows, for example, the automatic grounding of electrical equipment upon its mounting on a support structure.

[0002] The invention finds a particularly advantageous application for grounding photovoltaic panel frames. Previous technique

[0003] The Applicant develops particularly relevant solutions for automatically grounding electrical equipment during its assembly.

[0004] He holds, in particular, patent EP2684252, which proposes a grounding connection device for electrical installations. This device incorporates self-connection means that automatically create an electrical connection during the mounting of electrical equipment, such as photovoltaic panel frames, onto their supports. The connection device has teeth designed to grip the panel frames to ensure a reliable connection. The connection device is also flexible, allowing the teeth to maintain pressure on the frame after mounting. In addition to automatic grounding during installation, this solution also reduces the number of parts used and simplifies installation by minimizing the number of cables, lugs, and screws required for grounding.

[0005] US patent 2011 / 085875 proposes a fastening device that can be used to create an equipotential bond between a profile and support and a solar module. There is a need to accelerate the implementation of such devices while improving safety.

[0006] Furthermore, in the field of photovoltaic panels, it is common practice to secure the frames to their supports using clamping brackets. To provide a visual indicator of tightness, the brackets can be held away from their tightened position by a spring, so that a simple glance at a bracket allows an operator to determine whether it is tightened or not. These springs, which can be made of metal or plastic, add to the complexity of the installation. Description of the invention

[0007] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks by providing a connection device for grounding electrical equipment and / or creating an equipotential bond between conductive elements, arranged to be at least partially interposed between a first part and a second part, said first part belonging to said electrical equipment and being electrically conductive, and said second part belonging to a support structure on which said electrical equipment is mounted and being at least partially electrically conductive, said connection device comprising: at least one first self-connection means arranged to automatically create electrical contact with said first part when said electrical equipment is mounted on said support structure, and at least one second self-connection means arranged to automatically create electrical contact with said second part when said electrical equipment is mounted on said support structure, so that an equipotential bond is automatically created between at least said electrical equipment and said support structure when said electrical equipment is mounted on said support structure via said connection device, said connection device is particular in that it further comprises at least one return means arranged to extend between a clamping piece of said first piece on said second piece and said second piece, and to be compressed when said clamping piece is in the clamped position, said at least one return means being capable of maintaining said clamping piece at a predetermined distance from its clamped position when said clamping piece is not in the clamped position, and said connection device is also particular in that it comprises an electrically conductive blade, said at least one return means being formed in said blade by cutting and / or bending.

[0008] Thanks to these provisions, the invention makes it possible to improve, facilitate and optimize the grounding and / or equipotential bonding of any type of electrical installation, regardless of the nature of the support structure, whether it is electrically conductive or not, whether it is continuous or discontinuous, this new device being particularly simple, fast, reliable, safe, without difficulty, accessible to unqualified personnel, ergonomic, versatile and guaranteed over time regardless of climatic or environmental conditions, the connection device also making it possible to properly position a clamping part and keep it away from its tightened position, which facilitates the assembly of the electrical installation and makes it easy to ensure that all the clamping parts of an installation are tightened.

[0009] Said first self-connecting means and / or said second self-connecting means can be formed in said blade by cutting and / or bending, which further facilitates the manufacture of the device according to the invention.

[0010] The said blade can be made of spring steel, which is a material with elastic and conductivity properties particularly suited to the invention.

[0011] Said at least one return means comprises straight sections connected by at least one curved section, the radius of curvature of the at least one curved section being decreased when the return means is compressed, which is a simple and robust embodiment of the invention.

[0012] The said connection device may include two return means extending on two opposite sides of said connection device, which makes it possible to hold the clamping part stably, without too much effort being required to compress the return means.

[0013] The said connection device may include a receiving area comprising a receiving wall forming the base of a U and at least two placement walls forming the arms of said U, said receiving area being preferably made by cutting and / or folding said blade and arranged to receive at least a part of said clamping piece, which allows optimal placement of the clamping piece for clamping.

[0014] The said receiving wall may include a first opening suitable for being passed through by a means of fixing the clamping part such as a screw, which allows said device to properly surround the means of fixing and thus to support the clamping part stably for the purpose of its clamping.

[0015] At least one of the said at least two placement walls may include at least one retention means arranged to become embedded in the material of said clamping piece and prevent its removal, and simultaneously create an electrical contact with said clamping piece if it is electrically conductive, which makes it possible to prevent the extraction of the clamping piece from said device, and that once clamped, the clamping piece may possibly be put into equipotential connection with the first piece and the second piece.

[0016] Said at least one retention means may be formed by at least one pointed tooth, obtained by cutting and / or folding in one of the arms of the U of the receiving area, arranged protruding inside the U, which is a simple and robust embodiment of the invention.

[0017] The said receiving area may include two placement walls, each placement wall having a means of restraint, which allows for effective restraint.

[0018] The said receiving area may include four placement walls, each placement wall having a means of restraint, which further improves the effectiveness of the restraint.

[0019] The said receiving area may include at least two placement walls, said at least two placement walls being located near two opposite corners of said receiving wall, said device including at least two restraint means located on each of the at least two placement walls, which makes it possible with a limited number of restraint means to ensure optimal restraint.

[0020] The first self-connecting means and / or the second self-connecting means may include sharp teeth arranged to engage with the material of the first part, or second part respectively, when the electrical equipment is mounted on the support structure. The sharp teeth are preferably obtained by cutting and / or bending the electrically conductive blade, which constitutes an easy and efficient embodiment. When the first part, or second part respectively, is made of anodized aluminum, the teeth allow for the local removal of the anodized coating to establish near-perfect electrical contact.

[0021] The said connection device may include at least two first means of self-connection, the first means of self-connection being arranged to automatically connect to earth or to a reference potential two electrical equipment arranged side by side and mounted on a support structure, which allows the connection devices to be shared for several electrical equipment.

[0022] The connection device may further include an opening configured to be traversed by a means for securing the clamping piece, said connection device further including at least one retaining means extending from the edge of the opening, and enabling said retaining means to be held within said opening. This allows the retaining means to be held in position before tightening.

[0023] The connection device may include a base with a second opening configured to be traversed by a clamping element, said base having a third self-connecting means arranged to automatically create electrical contact with a nut cooperating with said clamping means when said electrical equipment is mounted on said support structure. These arrangements allow for simple and rapid grounding of this nut.

[0024] This predetermined distance can be greater than or equal to 4 mm, which is a sufficient distance to easily spot visually a clamping part that is not properly tightened.

[0025] The present invention also proposes a method for mounting a first part onto a second part, said first part belonging to an electrical equipment and being electrically conductive, and said second part belonging to a support structure on which said electrical equipment is mounted, said second part being at least partially electrically conductive, said device comprising the following steps: installation of a connection device according to the invention and of a clamping piece on said second piece, so that the clamping piece is held by said connection device in the position to be clamped, installation of said first piece, so that the connection device is at least partially interposed between the first piece and the second piece, tightening of said clamping piece so as to compress said at least one return means, automatically causing the creation of an equipotential connection between said electrical equipment and said support structure. Brief description of the drawings

[0026] The present invention and its advantages will become more apparent from the following description of several embodiments given by way of non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [ Fig 1 ] There figure 1is a profile view schematically showing a connection device according to a first embodiment of the invention, interposed between a support and a frame, in an untightened position, [ Fig 2 ] There figure 2 is a perspective view of the connection device of the figure 1 , [ Fig 3 ] There figure 3 is a front view of the connection device Figures 1 And 2 , [ Fig 4 ] There figure 4 is a profile view schematically showing a connection device according to a second embodiment of the invention, interposed between a support and a frame, in an untightened position, [ Fig 5 ] There figure 5 is a perspective view of the connection device of the figure 4 , [ Fig 6 ] There figure 6 is a front view of the connection device figures 4 And 5 , [ Fig 7 ] There figure 7is a front view schematically showing a connection device according to a third embodiment of the invention, interposed between a support and a frame, in an untightened position, [ Fig 8 ] There figure 8 is a perspective view of the connection device of the figure 7 , [ Fig 9 ] There figure 9 is a front view of the connection device figures 7 And 8 , [ Fig 10 ] There Figure 10 is a perspective view of the connection device of figures 1 to 3 , mounted on a rail with a clamping piece, the clamping piece being parallel to the rail, [ Fig 11 ] There figure 11 is a perspective view of the connection device of figures 1 to 3 , mounted on a rail with a clamping piece, the clamping piece being orthogonal to the rail, [ Fig. 12 ] There figure 12 is a perspective view of part of a connection device according to a fourth embodiment, [ Fig. 13 ] There figure 13is a front view of part of the connection device of the figure 12 , [ Fig. 14 ] There figure 14 is a perspective view of the connection device of the Fig. 12 , assembled to a clamping piece, a fastening means and a nut, in the untightened position, and [ Fig. 15 ] There figure 15 is a profile view of the connection device of the Fig. 12 assembled to a nut, the nut being positioned in a rail in a locked position. Description of the implementation methods

[0027] In the illustrated embodiments, identical elements or parts bear the same reference numbers. Furthermore, terms with a relative meaning, such as vertical, horizontal, right, left, front, back, above, below, etc., should be interpreted under normal conditions of use of the invention, as shown in the figures. Moreover, the geometric positions indicated in the description and claims, such as "perpendicular," "parallel," and "symmetrical," are not limited to the strict geometric definition but extend to geometric positions that are close, i.e., that allow a certain tolerance within the technical field considered, without affecting the result obtained.

[0028] This tolerance is notably introduced by the adverb "sensible", without this term necessarily being repeated before each adjective.

[0029] With reference to the figures, the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d according to the invention is arranged to facilitate the creation of an equipotential bond and, where applicable, the grounding of electrical equipment mounted on a support structure by being interposed between a first part 2 belonging to the electrical equipment and a second part 3 belonging to the support structure. "Electrical equipment" means any element that can be electrically conductive, and "support structure" means any receiving surface suitable for receiving the electrical equipment. The first part 2 is generally made of electrically conductive materials, primarily metallic, sometimes anodized, while the second part 3 is made wholly or partly of electrically conductive materials, primarily metallic and possibly also anodized.

[0030] THE Figures 1 , 4 And 7illustrate examples of the application of the invention to a photovoltaic panel installation, each panel having a metal frame, constituting said first electrically conductive part 2. The photovoltaic panels are arranged side by side to cover a surface and are mounted, in the example shown, on a receiving element, constituting said second part 3. The second part 3 may be a rail, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11Of course, any other type of support structure with a different mounting method may be suitable, provided its location, shape, and design are adapted to the application and intended use of the installation. The support structure may be located on the ground or at a height, designed to define a receiving surface of generally flat, curved, or complex shape, arranged in a generally horizontal, vertical, or inclined plane, and defined by point or discontinuous support elements such as pads or rail sections, or by continuous support elements such as rails, or by a combination of both, as well as by any other equivalent support means.At least part of the second component 3 is made of a conductive material, such as aluminum and its alloys, but the remainder of the support structure can be made of any type of material without exception, such as aluminum and its alloys, synthetic and composite materials, natural wood-based materials, etc. Again, the invention is not limited to photovoltaic panel installations but extends to any application using electrical components requiring grounding or equipotential bonding with an element of the mounting structure, such as thermal panels, hybrid thermal / photovoltaic panels or the like, inverters or micro-inverters, metal structures of all kinds, cable trays, Faraday cages, machine frames, technical work booths (e.g., paint booths), etc. These examples are not exhaustive.

[0031] In the context of the present invention, the mounting of the first part 2 on the second part 3 is maintained by the presence of a clamping part 4, for example a flange, which can be held in a clamped position by a screw.

[0032] THE Figures 10 and 11 illustrate two different types of assembly, both featuring an identical connection device 1a, with both assemblies being mounted on a second part 3, which is a rail. In the assembly illustrated in Figure 10 The clamping piece 4 is parallel to rail 3, which allows, for example, the photovoltaic panels to be positioned with their short side parallel to rail 3. In the assembly illustrated in figure 11 , clamping piece 4 is perpendicular to rail 4, which allows for example to arrange photovoltaic panels with the long side arranged parallel to rail 3.

[0033] The connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d is shown in detail in the figures 2 And3 according to the method of implementation of the figure 1 , in the Figures 5 And 6 according to the method of implementation of the figure 4 , as well as in the figures 8 And 9 according to the method of implementation of the figure 7 .

[0034] The connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d comprises or is made of a blade cut from a strip of metallic and elastic material, for example, from a strip of stainless spring steel. This strip of material may have a relatively small thickness, for example, between 0.5 mm and 1 mm, without these values ​​being limiting. Of course, any other technically equivalent material with good electrical conductivity and elasticity properties may be suitable. This material may or may not have a thermal and / or chemical surface treatment to add properties, for example, protective properties depending on the nature of the parts 2, 3 in the presence of the ambient environment.

[0035] The connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d comprises at least one first self-connecting means 5 and at least one second self-connecting means 6 arranged to automatically create an electrical contact between the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the first part 2, respectively the second part 3, when the electrical equipment is mounted on the support structure. This ensures that, during mounting, an equipotential bond is automatically created between the electrical equipment and the support structure, and, for example, connects the electrical equipment to earth if the support structure has been previously grounded.

[0036] The first self-connecting means 5 and / or the second self-connecting means 6 may have teeth 7, formed, for example, by cutting and bending in the electrically conductive blade. The teeth 7 consist of at least one tooth, for example, five teeth for the first self-connecting means 5, and two teeth for the second self-connecting means 6 (one tooth on each side), without these numbers being limiting. The teeth 7 of the first self-connecting means 5 are preferably projecting from a first contact plane 8 belonging to the connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, and being in contact with the first part 2. In some embodiments, the teeth 7 of the first self-connecting means 5 extend from the contact plane 8. In other embodiments, the teeth 7 of the first self-connecting means 5 pass through the first contact plane 8.The teeth 7 of the second self-connecting means 6 are preferably projecting with respect to a second contact plane 9 belonging to the connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, and being in contact with the second part 3. In other embodiments, the teeth 7 of the second self-connecting means 6 passes through the second contact plane 9, as in the embodiment illustrated in the . Figures 5 And 6 Regardless of the embodiment, the teeth 7 are arranged to butt against, then become embedded in the material of the first part 2, respectively the second part 3, when the electrical equipment is mounted on the support structure, and pressed against it by the clamping part 4, automatically creating an electrical contact between the first part 2, said connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the second part 3.

[0037] The first and / or second means of self-connection 5, 6 are preferably formed in the electrically conductive blade by cutting and / or folding, forming an elastic tab, which has the advantage of ensuring electrical contact, even if the clamping pressure varies due to either the expansion of the materials under the effect of external stresses, or a loosening of the clamping part 4.

[0038] The connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d may include several first self-connection means 5 and / or several second self-connection means 6. For example, two first self-connection means 5 and two second self-connection means 6, as illustrated in figure 2 , four first means of self-connection 5 and two second means of self-connection 6, as illustrated in figure 5 , or two first means of self-connection 5 and six second means of self-connection 6, as illustrated in figure 8These examples are not exhaustive.

[0039] The first self-connecting means 5 of a connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d can all be arranged to fit into the same first part 2, or into several separate first parts 2, as illustrated in figure 1 with two separate parts 2 linked to the same connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d. Similarly, the second self-connecting means 6 of a connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d can all be arranged to fit into the same second part 3, or into several separate second parts 3.

[0040] The connection device further includes at least one return means 10. The return means 10 is formed in the electrically conductive blade by cutting and / or bending, so as to take a shape suitable for being compressed.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the return means 10 comprises alternating straight sections 11 and curved sections 12, that is, at least two straight sections 11 connected by at least one curved section 12. The two curved sections 12 surrounding a straight section 11 have a reversed direction of curvature, so that the assembly of these three sections has an S-shape. Under the effect of pressure tending to bring the ends of the return means 10 closer together, the radii of curvature of the curved sections 12 decrease, which has the effect of bringing the straight sections 11 closer together and compressing the return means 10. The radius of curvature can be identical for all the curved sections 12 of a return means, as illustrated in figures 1 to 6 , or it may vary within the same 1c connection device, as illustrated in figures 7 to 9 In the example illustrated in figures 7 to 9, an opening has been made inside the blade at the level of certain curved sections 12 in order to facilitate the compression of the return means 10. This arrangement is particularly useful in the case of large radii of curvature, for example from 5 mm.

[0042] The return means 10 comprises a plurality of straight sections connected in series, forming an angle between each pair of consecutive straight sections. The two angles enclosing a straight section have opposite orientations, so that sets of three consecutive straight sections have a Z shape. Under the effect of pressure tending to bring the ends of the return means 10 closer together, the amplitudes of the angles decrease, which has the effect of bringing the straight sections closer together and compressing the return means 10. The amplitudes of the angles taken when the return means is at rest may be identical for all the angles of a connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, or may vary within the same connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d.In some embodiments, an opening is made inside the blade at certain angles to facilitate the compression of the return means 10. This arrangement is particularly useful in the case of angles with a large amplitude.

[0043] The return means 10 is arranged to extend between the clamping part 4 and the second part 3. The return means 10 may not be in contact with the clamping part 4 or the second part 3; other intermediate elements may be present. The return means 10 is arranged to be compressed when the first part 2 is mounted on the second part 3, and the clamping part 4 is in the clamped position. When the clamping part 4 is not in the clamped position, the return means 10 is at rest, or slightly compressed by the weight of the clamping part 4, and extends over a greater distance than when compressed. The clamping part 4 is thus held at a predetermined distance from its clamped position, this predetermined distance corresponding to the distance between the position of the clamping part in the clamped position and the position of the clamping part when held at a distance by the return means 10 in the unclamped position.

[0044] The predetermined distance between the clamped and unclamped positions of the clamping part 4 can be greater than 4 mm, preferably between 5 and 15 mm. It should be noted that for a given connection device, several predetermined distances can be used depending on the dimensions of the part 2.

[0045] The connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d may include several recall means 10, for example two recall means 10, as illustrated in figures 2 And 8 , or four, as illustrated in figure 5This number can be adjusted according to the weight of the clamping element 4, which must be able to be supported by all the return means 10 without excessive compression, and the respective geometries of the connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the clamping element 4, so that the clamping element is held stably at a predetermined distance from its clamped position when not in that position. The height of the return means 10 can also be adapted to the dimensions of the element 2, for example, to the height of a photovoltaic panel frame. In some cases, it is preferable to limit the number of return means 10 and / or adapt their geometry so that the force required to compress them is as low as possible, preferably just greater than the weight of the clamping element 4.Indeed, in certain fields, such as photovoltaics, the minimum tightening torque to be applied is around 10 Nm, and it is desirable not to increase this force too much further by that required for the compression of the return means 10.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d comprises a receiving area 13 arranged to receive the clamping piece 4. The receiving area 13 is U-shaped, the base of which is formed by a receiving wall 14 and the arms by at least two positioning walls 15. Depending on the embodiment, the receiving area 13 may comprise two positioning walls 15, as illustrated in figures 2 And 5 , four placement walls 15, as illustrated in the figure 8These examples are not exhaustive. These provisions depend on the dimensions of the clamping part 4, and also on the optimization in the use of material, particularly when the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d is made from a metal blade.

[0047] The receiving area 13 is preferably formed in the electrically conductive blade by cutting and / or bending.

[0048] The dimensions of the U can correspond to the dimensions of the clamping piece 4, so that the clamping piece 4 is held in position, ready to be clamped, once it is placed on the receiving wall 14 between the placement walls 15, as in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 10 and 11 .

[0049] The placement walls 15 are preferably perpendicular to the receiving wall 14, which makes it easy to insert into the receiving area 13 and to hold in a stable position a clamping piece 4 whose walls to be held in the receiving area 13 are perpendicular to each other.

[0050] THE figures 1 to 9 show three different embodiments of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, illustrating different variations of the receiving zone 13. In some embodiments, an example of which is illustrated in figure 7 The placement walls 15 extend to a stop on the clamping piece 4. In other embodiments, an example of which is illustrated in figure 1 , the placement walls 15 do not extend to this point.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the receiving area 13 has a first opening 16, suitable for being traversed by a fastening means 17 for the clamping piece 4. This fastening means 17 may, for example, be a screw. The first opening 16 is preferably circular, with an inner radius slightly larger than the radius of the fastening means 17, for example, than the thread radius of a screw 17 (cf. Figs. 10 and 11 ).

[0052] The receiving area 13 may include at least one retaining means 18. The retaining means 18 is preferably located on one of the placement walls 15 and is designed to become embedded in the material of the clamping piece 4 and prevent its removal when placed in the receiving area 13. The retaining means 18 may also allow for electrical contact between the connecting device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the clamping piece 4 if the latter is at least partially electrically conductive. This allows the clamping piece 4 to be connected to earth, together with the first part 2 and the second part 3.

[0053] The retaining means 18 is preferably obtained by cutting and folding one of the placement walls 15 of the receiving zone 13, so as to obtain at least one sharp tooth extending inside the U formed by the receiving zone 13. When the clamping piece 4 is inserted into the receiving zone 13, the tooth becomes embedded in the material of the clamping piece 4. The tooth is preferably oriented in a direction opposing the extraction of the clamping piece 4, as illustrated in figures 2 , 3 , 5 , 6 , 8 And 9 The inlay allows, when the clamping part 4 is at least partially electrically conductive, to create an equipotential bond between the clamping part and the connecting part, and preferably with the first part 2 and the second part 3, and thus possibly to connect the clamping part 4 to earth.

[0054] The connecting piece 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d is preferably made entirely from an electrically conductive blade.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting piece 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d may comprise a base 19, located at the bottom on the figure 2The base 19 may include the first contact plane 8 and / or the second contact plane 9. The two contact planes 8 and 9 preferably constitute opposite faces of the base 19. The first self-connecting means 5 may then extend from the base 19 to an inner side of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, and the second self-connecting means 6 may extend from the base 19 to an outer side of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d. The base 19 is connected to the receiving area 13 by at least one return means 10. The base 19 may include a second opening 20 for the passage of a fastening means 17 for the clamping piece 4, the second opening 20 optionally being aligned with the first opening 16 of the receiving area 13.These provisions make it possible to obtain a connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d which is very simple to manufacture from a metal strip, which contains little material and whose manufacture produces little waste.

[0056] As illustrated in figures 12 to 15 In the variant of the invention comprising a base 19 and a second opening 20, said base 19 may include a third self-connecting means 23. The third self-connecting means 23 is arranged to automatically create electrical contact with a nut 24 cooperating with the fastening means, for example the screw 17, when said electrical equipment is mounted on said support structure. The self-connecting means 23 preferably comprises teeth, formed for example by cutting and bending in the electrically conductive blade, and consisting of at least one tooth.

[0057] As illustrated in Figures 14 And 15The nut 24 may include locking means, for example in the form of fins 25, arranged to cooperate with the geometry of the part 3. The connection device 1d according to the invention can then be used according to the following method: assembly of the connecting device 1d with the nut 24, the fastening means 17 and the clamping piece 4, to form an assembly of which an example is illustrated in Fig. 14 , insertion of the nut 24 into a groove 26 of the part 3, the nut 24 being oriented so that it can be inserted into said groove 26, rotation of the nut 24 by 90° inside the groove 26, about an axis perpendicular to the groove 26, so that the nut is in a locking position, i.e., it cannot come out of the groove 26 by a translational movement, as illustrated by way of example in figure. 15 .

[0058] In one embodiment of the invention, the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d comprises a retaining means 21 extending from the edge of the first opening 16, as illustrated in Figures 5 And 8 , or the second opening 20, as illustrated in the figure 2 , so as to bring the connecting device into contact with a fastening means 17 inserted into the first opening 16, respectively the second opening 20. The retaining means 21 extends inwards into the first opening 16, respectively the second opening 20, for example towards the center of the first opening 16, respectively the second opening 20. The retaining means 21 may extend in the plane of the first opening 16, respectively the second opening 20, but preferably it extends in the direction of insertion of the fastening means 17, for example on the figure 2downwards. Thus, if the fastening means 17 is a screw, the retaining means 21 fits into the screw thread and prevents the screw from being extracted from the first opening 16, or second opening 20, respectively. This arrangement is particularly useful in fields such as photovoltaics, where the screw 17 is screwed in from its end opposite its head, i.e., from below on the Fig. 2 In such a case, the first contact with the screw for tightening may cause the screw to rise and come out of the first opening 16, or second opening 20 respectively. This problem is solved if the screw is held by a retaining means 21. The retaining means 21 may also allow an electrical connection with the fastening means 17 and thus equipotentiality of the fastening means 17 with parts 2, 3, and possible grounding of the fastening means 17. The retaining means 21 may advantageously have a toothed shape.

[0059] In some embodiments, the fastening means 17 cooperates with the second part 3 at an elongated opening 22 made in the second part 3, illustrated by way of example in Figure 10 This elongated opening 22 allows for some tolerance in the placement of the fastening means 17, and therefore of the clamping piece 4, along the second part 3, for example, a rail. However, if the second self-connecting means 6 are too close to the fastening means 17, they may be located at the elongated opening 22 and not be in contact with the second part 3, which prevents them from establishing the electrical connection between the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the second part 3. With a connection device 1a as illustrated in figures 1 to 3 This risk is even greater if the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d is arranged as illustrated in figure 11the elongated opening 22 being located under a large part of the base 19. In order to prevent the second self-connecting means 6 from being in front of this elongated opening 22, it may be provided that they are kept away from the fixing means 17. To do this, a minimum distance may be maintained between the second self-connecting means 6 of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the intended passage of the fixing means 17, which may be located at the right of the first opening 16, and at the level of the opening 20 where applicable.

[0060] Within the framework of the present invention, the first part 2 can be mounted on the second part 3 by an assembly method comprising the following steps: installation of a connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and a clamping piece 4 on said second piece 3. By the action of the return means 10, the clamping piece 4 is then held at a predetermined distance from its clamped position, possibly in a position ready to be clamped by fitting into the receiving area 13.The placement and retention of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d and the clamping piece 4 can be aided by the insertion of the fixing piece 17 into the clamping piece 4 and into an opening in the first piece 2, optionally passing through a first hole 16 and / or a second hole 20 of the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, positioning the first piece 2, so that the connection device 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d is at least partially interposed between the first piece 2 and the second piece 3, clamping said clamping piece 4 so as to compress said at least one return means 10, automatically causing the creation of an equipotential bond between said electrical equipment and said support structure, and optionally also with the clamping piece 4.

[0061] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described but extends to any modification and variant obvious to a person skilled in the art, within the limits of the appended claims. Furthermore, the technical features of the various embodiments and variants mentioned above may be combined, in whole or in part.

Claims

1. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) for earthing an electrical apparatus and / or establishing an equipotential connection between conductive elements, said device being arranged to be at least partly interposed between a first part (2) and a second part (3), said first part (2) belonging to said electrical apparatus and being electrically conductive, and said second part (3) belonging to a support structure on which said electrical apparatus is installed and being electrically conductive at least in part, said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) comprising: - at least one first auto-connect means (5) arranged to automatically establish electrical contact with said first part (2) when said electrical apparatus is installed on said support structure, and - at least one second auto-connect means (6) arranged to automatically establish electrical contact with said second part (3) when said electrical apparatus is installed on said support structure, such that an equipotential connection is automatically established between at least said electrical apparatus and said support structure when said electrical apparatus is installed on said support structure by means of said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d), characterised in that said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) further comprises at least one return means (10), which is arranged to extend between a part (4) for clamping said first part (2) on said second part (3) and said second part (3) and arranged to be compressed when said clamping part (4) is in the clamping position, said at least one return means (10) being able to keep said clamping part (4) at a predetermined distance from its clamping position when said clamping part (4) is not in the clamping position, said at least one return means (10) comprises rectilinear sections (11) connected by at least one curved section (12), the radius of curvature of the at least one curved section (12) being reduced when the return means is compressed, and in that said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) comprises an electrically conductive blade, said at least one return means (10) being formed in said blade by cutting and / or bending.

2. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to claim 1, characterised in that said first auto-connect means (5) and / or said second auto-connect means (6) is formed in said blade by cutting and / or bending.

3. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 2, characterised in that said blade is made of spring steel.

4. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that it comprises two return means (10) extending on two opposite sides of said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d).

5. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that it comprises a receiving zone (13) having a receiving wall (14), which forms the base of a U, and at least two placement walls (15), which form the arms of said U, said receiving zone (13) preferably being produced by cutting and / or bending said blade and being arranged to receive at least part of said clamping part (4).

6. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to claim 5, characterised in that said receiving wall (14) comprises a first opening (16) through which a fastening means (17) of the clamping part (4), such as a screw, can pass.

7. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 5 to 6, characterised in that at least one of said at least two placement walls (15) comprises at least one retaining means (18) arranged to be embedded in the material of said clamping part (4) and prevent the removal of said clamping part and simultaneously to establish electrical contact with said clamping part (4) if it is electrically conductive.

8. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to claim 7, characterised in that said at least one retaining means (18) is formed by at least one pointed tooth, which is obtained by cutting and / or bending in one of the arms of the U of the receiving zone (13) and arranged so as to project inside the U.

9. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that said first auto-connect means (5) and / or said second auto-connect means (6) comprise(s) a pointed toothing which is arranged to be embedded in the material of said first part (2) and / or second part (3) when said electrical apparatus is installed on said support structure, said pointed toothing preferably being obtained by cutting and / or bending said electrically conductive blade.

10. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that it comprises at least two first auto-connect means (5), said at least two first auto-connect means (5) being arranged to automatically connect two electrical apparatuses, which are arranged side by side and installed on a support structure, to earth or to a reference potential.

11. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that it comprises an opening (16, 20) configured for a fastening means (17) of the clamping part (4) to pass therethrough, said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) further comprising at least one holding means (21) that extends from the edge of the opening (16, 20) and allows said fastening means (17) to be held in said opening (16, 20).

12. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 11, characterised in that it comprises a base (19) comprising a second opening (20) configured for a fastening means (17) of the clamping part (4) to pass therethrough, said base (19) comprising a third auto-connect means (23) arranged to automatically establish electrical contact with a nut (24) that interacts with said fastening means (17) when said electrical apparatus is installed on said support structure.

13. Connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that said predetermined distance is greater than or equal to 4 mm.

14. Method for installing a first part (2) on a second part (3), said first part (2) belonging to an electrical apparatus and being electrically conductive, and said second part (3) belonging to a support structure on which said electrical apparatus is installed, said second part (3) being electrically conductive at least in part, said device comprising the following steps: - placing a connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) according to any of claims 1 to 13 and a clamping part (4) on said second part (3) such that the clamping part (4) is held by said connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) in a position for being clamped, - placing said first part (2) such that the connection device (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) is at least partly interposed between the first part (2) and the second part (3), - clamping said clamping part (4) so as to compress said at least one return means (10), automatically causing an equipotential connection to be established between said electrical apparatus and said support structure.