Device and method for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (100) for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, comprising at least one base element (101) and at least one hook member (102) which are mutually connected and displaceable such that the mutual distance between the at least one hook member (102) and the at least one base element (101) is adjustable. The device (100) further comprises at least one activation element (104) and at least one locking structure (103) which are configured for co-action such that at least part of the locking structure (103) is configured to limit displacement of the at least one activation element (104) in at least one direction.

Description

[0001] Device and method for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof

[0002] The invention relates to a device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof. The invention also relates to a method for mounting at least one device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof.

[0003] The energy transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy, such as solar and wind is ongoing. In this energy transition era, more and more solar panels are installed on roofs. Installing solar panels on roofs comes with working at heights. Working at heights increases the need for safety measures to avoid incidents with the installers. Furthermore, conventional devices for installing solar panels on a roof typically require tooling for proper and safe mounting of the solar panels and the mounting devices. There is a risk that tooling will fall, causing risks of injury and / or damages to the surroundings of the roof where the solar panels are installed. Installing solar panels on roofs can also be a time-consuming operation. With the increasing need and urgency of the energy transition more and more solar panels need to be installed. Thus, there is a need for simplifying and speeding up the ways of working for mounting solar panels on roofs.

[0004] It is a first object of the present invention to provide an improved device and / or method or at least an alternative for mounting solar panels on roofs.

[0005] The present invention provides thereto a device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, comprising at least one base element and at least one hook member, wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually connected or connectable and configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, and wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually displaceable such that the mutual distance between the at least one hook member and the at least one base element is adjustable, and preferably wherein the device comprises at least one activation element which is (directly or indirectly) connected to at least part of the at least one base element and wherein displacement of at least one activation element causes displacement of the at least one base element with respect to the at least one hook member, and preferably wherein the device comprises at least one locking structure and / or locking mechanism which is configured to co-act with the at least one activation element such that at least part of the locking structure is configured to limit and / or limits displacement of the at least one activation element in at least one direction.

[0006] The device according to the present invention has several benefits over conventional devices which are configured for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof. The device according to the present invention is for example easy and safe to handle for the user mounting solar panels on a roof. The device according to the present invention in particular benefits from the combination of at least one locking structure and at least one activation element. Due to the at least one activation element being connected to at least part of the at least one base element, displacement of at least one activation element causes displacement of the at least one base element with respect to the at least one hook member and through the effective co-action between the at least one activation element and the at least one locking structure it is achieved that displacement of the at least one activation element in at least one direction is limited, and thus that also displacement of at least one base element with respect to at least one hook member is limited. Typically, the distance between the at least one base element and the at least one hook member is decreased upon displacement of the activation element in a first direction. The at least one locking structure is in particular configured to (at least temporarily) prevent that the mutual distance between the at least one base element and the at least one hook member can be increased. In this way, the device can be adapted to a dimension which is suitable for the specific roof (part) upon which the device is applied. The at least one locking structure can further achieve that the distance between the at least one base element and the at least one hook member cannot be widened, such that the device can be kept in a stable configuration on the roof. Preferably the device is brought into a configuration wherein it clampingly engages at least part of a roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile. Hence, the at least one activation element can be (directly or indirectly) configured to reduce the mutual distance between the at least one hook member and the at least one base element. The at least one locking structure can be configured to prohibit that the mutual distance between the at least one hook member and the at least one base element can be increased after reduction thereof. The device according to the invention is in particular configured for mounting at least part of a solar panel system to a roof. The device according to the present invention basically forms a roof hook. The device according to the present invention could also be referred to as roof hook. Preferably the device according to the present invention is used in combination with a tile and / or a tile batten for mounting solar panels on a roof. When installed, at least part of the base element is typically in contact with part of a tile batten and at least part of the hook member is in contact with at least part of the top surface of a tile. The base element and hook member may thereby form a bracket. The user can position the device along and / or around a tile batten and tile combination. The at least one locking structure can be configured such that free mutual movement of the hook member and base element, at least in an outward direction is blocked, for example such that only movement in one direction can be possible.

[0007] The device according to the present invention comprises at least one activation element. Possibly, activation of at least one activation element causes at least one locking structure to be actuated from at least one unlocked configuration to at least one locked configuration. At least one activation element may be activated manually, or (semi)automatically for example upon contact with a part of the roof. It is preferred that at least one activation element can be activated upon contact with at least part of the roof. In a possible embodiment, the activation element can be configured to remain in contact with part of the roof and / or tile and / or tile batten in the locked configuration. In this way, further displacement of the at least one activation element in at least one direction is prevented. This will consequently cause that displacement of the base element with respect to the hook member in at least one direction can be prevented. It is conceivable that at least part of the locking structure will remain in a desired position because of the grip and resistance between the activation element and the locking structure. It is conceivable that a pretension exists between the activation element and the locking structure, such that mutual displacement in at least one direction is restricted or prevented. At least one activation element is preferably configured to be activated in a tool-less manner. The activation element can for example also actuate at least part of the locking structure, whilst no additional mechanical or power tools are required. Activation of at least one activation element may require the force of the user moving at least the activation element and / or the base element and / or the hook member. This can be beneficial for a time-efficient mounting and positioning of the device on at least part of a roof. The tool-less manner provides for a safer way of working for the user.

[0008] An advantage of the device according to the present invention is that clamping and / or locking of the roof hook on the tile batten and tile can take place in less movements compared to installation of conventional roof hooks. It is even conceivable that positioning, clamping and / or locking of the device can be executed in a single movement of the user mounting the device onto the roof. This saves time, and thus cost in installing the solar panels on the roof. Due to the activation element, there are no additional tools required to activate the clamping of the tile and or batten by the hook member and the base element. Due to the locking structure, there are no additional tools required for causing the device to be in a locked position. Omitting additional tools is beneficial because it saves time, material and increases the safety of the mounting operation because the risk of tools falling off the roof, which may cause damage to the solar panels or to the surroundings of the roof, is eliminated. In the locked position, the device is typically substantially locked while clampingly engaging at least part of the roof. The position of the device with respect to the roof may be determined by a mechanic. Clampingly engaging of at least part of the roof by at least the hook member and the base element is beneficial for a secure connection of the device, and thus the solar panel system mounted thereon, on the roof. The device according to the present invention can be configured to cover a range of tiles and tile battens. The mutual distance between the at least one base element and the at least one hook member may be adjustable. The device may be configured to cover a range of clamping positions, wherein the mutual distance in between the hook member and base element can be freely adjusted and / or predefined.

[0009] At least one activation element may be configured to be linearly displaced. It is conceivable that the linear direction of the displacement of the activation element differs from the direction in which the base element and the hook member are mutually displaced. In a beneficial embodiment, at least one activation element is connected to at least part of at least one base element via at least one connection element. The co-action between at least one activation element and at least one base element can be further optimized by the inference of at least one connection element. The at least one connection element may cause that the activation element indirectly causes displacement of the base element. In this way, control of the direction of displacement of the activation element and / or the base element can be further optimized. It is conceivable that displacement of the activation element causes displacement of the connection element, and that displacement of said connection element causes displacement of the base element. It is for example possible that at least one connection element is an elongated connection element. Preferably, at least one connection element comprises at least one cable and / or wire. It also possible that at least one connection element comprises at least one elongated sheet and / or at least one wire sheet. It is for example possible that at least part of at least one connection element is made of metal. In this way, the connection element can be strong and durable. It is also possible that at least part of the at least one connection element is flexible.

[0010] Possibly, the device, and in particular the at least one base element comprising at least one guiding surface over which at least one connection element, in particular at least one cable, strap or band, can be guided. In this way, a smooth displacement of the connection element can occur. This can further contribute to a controlled and stable co-action between the connection element and the base element. It is also possible that the device, and in particular the base element and / or hook member, comprises at least one pulley. It is for example possible that at least part of at least one guiding surface is substantially rounded. It is also possible that at least part of at least one guiding surface is substantially smooth or untextured. However it is possible that part of the guiding surface comprises a guiding structure.

[0011] Preferably, at least one activation element comprises at least one contact surface configured for engaging at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. It is preferred that contact between part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile, and at least one contact surface causes the at least one activation element to displace. It is for example possible that (a plane defined by) at least one contact surface extends with respect at least one activation element. It is possible that at least one contact surface is located at a distal end of the at least one activation element. At least part of at least one contact surface may be substantially flat. It is also possible that at least part of at least one contact surface is textured. This may improve the grip between part of the roof and the contact surface. Preferably, at least one activation element is at least partially located between at least part of at least one base element and at least part of at least one hook member. In this way, activation of the activation element by part of the roof can be facilitated in a relatively easy manner. It is for example imaginable that at least part of at least one activation element is substantially enclosed between at least part of at least one hook member and at least part of at least one base element. At least one activation element can for example be positioned at an inner part of the device, for example an inner part defined by at least one hook member and at least one base element.

[0012] In a possible embodiment, at least one locking structure comprises at least one opening for receiving at least part of at least one activation element. It is also possible that at least one locking structure comprise or defines at least one receiving space for receiving at least part of the activation element. The locking structure may also comprise multiple receiving spaces and / or openings. It is possible that at least part of at least one locking structure is substantially rigid. At least part of the locking structure may be displaceable with respect to the activation element and / or the base element. It is also conceivable that at least one locking structure forms part of at least one activation element and / or at least one base element. It is for example possible that at least one locking structure forms integral part of at least one activation element, or vice versa.

[0013] At least one locking structure is preferably configured for mutual locking of the at least one hook member and the at least one base element in at least one position. At least one locking structure is preferably configured for mutual locking of the at least one hook member and the at least one base element in at least one direction. It is possible that at least one locking structure is at least actuatable between at least one unlocked configuration wherein the device is in an unlocked and / or unengaged position and at least one locked configuration wherein the device is in a locked position. In at least one locked configuration of the locking structure, preferably the mutual displacement of at least one base element and at least one hook member is prohibited in at least one direction. At least one locking structure is preferably configured to prevent that the distance between the base element and the hook member can be increased after reduction thereof. At least one locking structure may comprise at least one locking member. At least one locking member may be configured to prohibit mutual displacement between at least one base element and at least one hook member, preferably at least in one direction. At least one locking member may specifically be configured to prohibit displacement of at least one base element with respect to at least one hook member in at least one direction.

[0014] In a possible embodiment, at least one locking structure comprises at least one ratchet gear rack and / or at least one pawl. It is alternately possible that at least one ratchet gear rack and / or at least one pawl forms part of at least one activation element. It is also possible that at least one ratchet gear rack and / or at least one pawl forms part of at least one base element. The use of at least one ratchet gear rack may enable that a displacement restriction of at least one base element in at least one direction is obtained in a relatively simple manner. In a possible embodiment, at least part of at least one activation element comprises at least one ratchet gear rack and wherein preferably at least part of at least one locking structure is configured for co-action with at least part of said ratchet gear rack. When it is referred to a ratchet gear rack also a toothed surface can be meant.

[0015] The locking configuration of the locking structure can also be understood as that the locking configuration is a configuration wherein the movement in at least one degree of freedom is blocked. This can apply to the activation element, the connection element and / or the base element. It is preferred that in the unlocked or unengaged configuration of the locking structure movement in at least one degree of freedom is possible. For example, the locking structure in an unlocked configuration can be self-blocking such that mutual movement of the base element and hook member in only one linear direction is possible. For example, the locking structure in an unlocked configuration can be self-blocking such that mutual movement of the base element and hook member only rotationally is possible. It is also imaginable that in the unlocked configuration of the locking structure movement in multiple degrees of freedom is possible. In the locked position of the device, in particular all degrees of freedom may be blocked in particular such that the device can be or is securely connected to at least part of the roof. In an embodiment, at least one locking structure can be configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration upon contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile. In such an embodiment, upon contact of the activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile, the activation element can be activated and consequently the locking structure can be actuated from an unlocking configuration to a locked configuration. Because, in this embodiment, the locking structure is in particular configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration upon contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile. The locking structure is activated upon contact of the activation element with at least part of the roof, preferably a tile batten and / or a tile, such that the locking structure can be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration upon contact with the desired part of the roof. Actuation upon contact of the activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile and / or tile batten, increases the ease of use for the mechanic mounting solar panels on the roof. The activation element may for example activate a rotation point within the locking structure upon contact with part of the roof, such as a tile batten and / or a tile. The self-activation may be a mechanical activation of the locking structure.

[0016] Optionally, the device, and in particular at least one activation element comprises at least one spring. It is also possible that at least one locking structure comprises at least one spring. It is for example possible that at least part of at least one activation element is enclosed by at least one spring, for example a helical spring. It is possible that at least one activation element is a spring loaded activation element. At least one activation element, at least one locking structure and / or at least one spring may form part of a spring-loaded mechanism. It is possible that at least part of at least one spring is positioned in an area defined by at least part of the hook member and the base element. At least one locking structure of the device according to the present invention may comprise a self-locking mechanism. Said self-locking mechanism, may have the form of a self-blocking structure. The self-locking mechanism may comprise a spring, for example a leaf spring, a coil spring and / or a metal sheet spring. A self-locking mechanism is advantageous because it increases the stability of the device and ease of use of the device. In case self-locking is applied, in both the unlocked and locked configuration, the locking structure may lock the hook member and base element at least in one direction.

[0017] The device according to the invention may comprise a locking structure and / or a locking mechanism. It is also possible that the locking structure is referred to a as locking mechanism. It is possible that at least part of the locking structure and / or locking mechanism is formed by at least one activation element and / or that at least part of the locking structure and / or locking mechanism is formed by at least one base element.

[0018] It is conceivable that the locking structure is configured such that a manual action is required to overcome the locking action thereof. Hence, it is possible that it is manually possible to overcome the locking action, and to enable that displacement of the activation element with respect to the base element in at least one direction is possible again. It is also possible that (manually) overcoming the locking action or locked configuration results in that displacement of the base element away from the hook member is enabled again.

[0019] The device according to the invention is in particular configured to clampingly engage with at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. The device enables that a fitting attachment to the roof can be achieved in an effective manner. The combination of the activation element and at least one locking structure enables that the desired distance between the base element and the hook member can be obtained, whilst it is prevented that the base element and hook member can get loosened.

[0020] At least one hook member and at least one base element may be mutually connected by at least one activation element and / or at least one locking structure. This may contribute to the stability and simplicity of the device. Mutual connection of the at least one base element and the at least one hook member via the activation element and / or locking structure can be beneficial for the efficient combination of positioning, locking and / or clamping that is facilitated by the device according to the present invention. At least part of at least one locking structure may form part of at least one base element and / or at least one hook member. It is also conceivable that at least part of at least one activation element forms part of at least one base element and / or at least one hook member. In a possible embodiment, at least part of at least one locking structure can be formed by or comprise at least one recess and preferably multiple recesses. It is also imaginable that at least one part of at least one locking structure is formed by at least one pin and preferably multiple pins facilitating a rotational movement within the locking structure. Hence, at least part of the recess(es) and / or the pin(s) can form part of the hook member and / or base element.

[0021] During use, typically at least part of the hook member and the base element are substantially parallel. A parallel positioning of the hook member with respect to the base element is beneficial for the ease of installing of the device and / or the stability thereof. During installation, the parallel parts can remain in parallel with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile, on which the device is installed and a relatively small space is needed to position at least part of the device underneath a tile. Parallel positioning is easy to understand, intuitive and provides a visual guidance on how to install the device onto a roof, in particular onto a tile batten and / or a tile. Another benefit of parallel positioning of the hook member with respect to the base element is that a relatively large area of the hook member and base element can be in contact with part of the roof, in particular a tile and / or tile batten. A larger area can be beneficial for the stresses in the material of the roof whereon the device is mounted. This parallel positioning can result in a surface contact, which is also beneficial for the stability of the device in a locked position and during mounting of the device.

[0022] At least one activation element may be formed of a single part and / or may be formed of multiple parts. In a possible embodiment, at least one activation element comprises at least one sliding element. At least one sliding element may be configured to slidingly be displaced with respect to a further part of the device, such as the base element and / or the hook member. At least one sliding element may comprise at least one protrusion that is configured to abut at least part of the roof, for example a tile and / or tile batten. In a possible embodiment, at least one sliding element can be at least partially positioned in between the hook member and base element. In such configuration an intuitive way of mounting of the device is facilitated. In some embodiments, the device cannot be positioned in the desired position on part of the roof without activating the activation elements. Alternatively, the activation element can be activation after proper positioning of the device on at least part of the roof. At least one activation element, in particular a sliding element thereof, may be (movably) connected to the locking structure and / or form part of the locking structure.

[0023] There can be several ways to actuate the locking structure according to the present invention. The locking structure can for example be configured to be actuated automatically upon displacement of at least one activation element. It is also possible that at least part of at least one locking structure is forced into position upon displacement of at least one activation element. In addition, or alternatively, the activation element can be configured to be activated by movement of the base element. Movement of the base element can for example cause a surface contact between the base element and part of the roof, in particular the tile batten, during installation. This surface contact can positively contribute to increasing the stability of the device. The movement of the base element in particular with respect to the hook member may be substantially linear.

[0024] In an embodiment, at least one locking structure may be configured to be actuated from the unlocked configuration into the locked configuration by a mutual rotational movement of the hook member with respect to the base element. The base element can for example be stationary, while the hook member at least partially rotates, or vice versa. Alternatively, or depending on the situation, the hook member can be stationary while at least part of the base element rotates. The advantage thereof is that upon positioning of the device, depending on the space available and / or type of the roof, the space can be used for the movement of the device to ensure a secure mounting of the device.

[0025] For clampingly engaging the device to at least part of a roof, such as a roof tile and tile batten, the distance in between the hook member and base element can be adjusted. This means that the volume and / or area enclosed between the base element and the hook member can be decreased upon decreasing the distance between the hook member and the base element. Adjusting of the distance between the hook member and the base element is typically done by actuation of at least one activation element. At least one activation element can be configured to cause displacing of at least one base element in a stepless manner. However, it is also imaginable that at least one activation element is configured to cause displacing of at least one base element in distinct individual steps. Both stepless fashion and individual steps have the advantage that the device can be used on various types of roofs and various tiles and batten combinations. The clamping range itself can be similar in both situations, while the clamping force and stability can be higher when using a stepless locking structure.

[0026] Optionally, the device can be configured such that at least one activation element may be configured to be activated by the user of the device. Hence, at least one activation element can be a manually operable activation element. In an embodiment the activation element may comprise a pull element. Non-limiting examples of pull elements are a pull rope, a tether, a strap, a pull sheet, a pull ring and / or combination thereof. It is also possible that the pull element can be applied for enabling the activation element to return to an initial position. For example, in case the base element and hook member are displaced towards each other, the locking structure typically prevents that the base element and the hook member can be mutually displaced in an outward direction. It is possible that a user overcomes the locking action between the activation element and the locking structure. This could be done by the user actuating the activation element, for example by making use of a pull element. At least one activation element may for example comprise at least one pull rope that is configured such that the locking structure can be actuated from a locked to an unlocked configuration and vice versa upon pulling at least one rope. It is imaginable that at least one pull rope is configured to be pulled in at least two different directions. It is for example possible that at least one pull rope is configured to be pulled in a first direction for locking purposes and in a second direction for unlocking purposes, wherein the first direction differs from the second direction. The first direction can for example be substantially perpendicular to the second direction. Such rope could for example be configured to be pulled in a direction substantially perpendicular to a roof surface upon locking and substantially parallel to the roof surface for unlocking. At least one pull rope comprises at least one polymer material. It is for example possible that at least part of at least one pull rope comprises polypropylene (PP) and / or polyamide (PA) and / or at least one polyurethane. At least one polyurethane can for example be a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). At least one activation element can also be configured to be activated by applying a force to the device. In a preferred embodiment, at least one activation element is configured to be activated by creating a force due to contact between the device and a further element, for example part of the roof. It is for example conceivable that pushing the device onto the tile and / or tile batten causes activation of at least one activation element. Such embodiment is relatively easy to install as activation will be facilitated in a relatively simple manner.

[0027] At least one activation element can be a separate element, but can also be an integrally formed part of the device. At least one activation element can for example be connected with or form an integral part of at least one locking structure.

[0028] However, it is also imaginable that at least one activation element is connected with or forms an integral part of at least one base element. At least one activation element could also be connected with or form an integral part of at least one hook member. In a preferred embodiment, a first part of at least one activation element is connected with or forms an integral part of at least one locking element whilst a second part of at least one activation element is connected with or forms part of at least one hook member or at least one base element. In a beneficial embodiment, at least one activation element is connected with or forms integral part of at least one base element. This could result in a relatively compact design of the device, or at least the hook part thereof. Hence, at least one base element could comprise at least part of at least one activation element.

[0029] In an embodiment, at least part of at least one activation element is positioned on and / or connected to the hook member. The hook member may comprise at least part of at least one activation element. It is possible that the activation element is integrated with part of the hook member. At least one activation element may for example be configured to be displaced in a direction away from the hook member and / or base element.

[0030] At least one locking structure and at least one activation element are preferably mutually displaceable. In an embodiment, at least one activation element is movably connected to at least part of at least one locking structure. The activation element may be slidably connected, and / or via at least one rotatable pin connection or other means forming a rotation point. The activation element may cause, or actuate, a movement and / or displacement within the locking structure, upon contact with at least part of the roof, in particular a tile and / or a tile batten.

[0031] In an embodiment, the base element and the hook member may define a receiving space at least in the locked configuration. Said receiving space may be configured for receiving at least part of the roof, such that the hook member and base element mutually clamp around a tile and batten of a roof at least when the locking structure is in locked configuration. The receiving space may meet the measurements of a tile plus tile batten combination. In particular the height of the defined receiving space may be adjustable to be able to adjust for several combinations of tile plus tile batten combinations. If applied, this ensures that the device can be used on various types of roofs including various thicknesses of batten and various thicknesses of tiles. Therefore, the receiving space may be configured for receiving a tile and batten from a roof, in particular by applying a clamping force on the tile and or tile and batten combination, wherein the receiving space may be configured for a combined height of a tile and batten in the range of 30-65 mm. This allows for facilitating mounting solar panels with using the device according to the present invention for different types of tiles and different types of tile battens and tile plus tile batten combinations.

[0032] Besides variance in the type of tiles on a roof, the desired or needed height of the solar panel with respect to the roof surface can be variable as well. Adjusting the height of the solar panels with respect to the roof can be desired. The hook member of the device according to the present invention can comprise at least two hook parts that are mutually connected and wherein the total height of these hook parts is adjustable, in particular with respect to the base element. This is beneficial to be able to adjust the height, and thus the position, of the solar panel that is installed onto the device.

[0033] The device according to the present invention may comprise at least one retention element. The retention element is preferably configured for blocking at least one activation element. The retention element may also be configured for blocking at least part of the locking structure. It is imaginable that at least one retention element is formed by a sheet metal part. The retention element may be integrated with the hook member, the base element and / or the locking structure. Alternatively, the retention element may be formed by a separate spring. It is possible that in an embodiment, the activation element may be at least partly provided with a serration to co-act with a retention element, such as a spring. Such spring can be a separate spring or an integrated sheet metal spring.

[0034] It is imaginable that at least part of at least one activation element and / or at least one locking structure is configured to pivot and / or rotate. At least part of at least one locking structure and / or at least one activation element can for example pivot and / or rotate around a single rotation point. However, it is also conceivable that at least part of at least one locking structure is configured to rotate around multiple points of rotation.

[0035] In a possible embodiment, the at least one base element comprises at least one slot or slotted structure configured for guiding at least part of at least one activation element. The base element comprising at least one slot or slotted structure can enable co-action between the base element and the activation element in a relatively simple but effective manner. It is possible that at least one base element comprises at least one slot and that at least part of at least one activation element is received within said slot. At least one slot may comprise at least one engaging surface for co-action with at least part of the at least one activation element. It is for example possible that at least one activation element comprises at least one inclined end portion configured to engage at least part of at least one engaging surface. Possibly at least one activation element comprises at least two inclined end portions, which are preferably positioned at a distance from each other. At least one inclined end portion, and preferably each inclined end portion is positioned at an opposing distal end of the activation element than the at least one contact surface, if applied. In a possible embodiment, the at least one activation element may comprise at least two side wall which are positioned at a distance from each other. The side walls of the activation element may at least partially define a U-shape. The at least one slot may also comprise multiple engaging surfaces which are configured to co-act with the inclined end portions of the side walls of the activation element. The angle of the inclines end portions may determine the ratio between the vertical and horizontal translation, or displacement of the base element. It is for example possible that the angle is between 25 and 75 degrees, in particular between 35 and 65 degrees or between 45 and 55 degrees. It is conceivable that the base element and the activation element are mutually connected via the slot. It is also possible that at least one activation element comprises at least one retaining member which is in particular configured for retaining said activation element with respect to at least part of at least one base element. At least one retaining member may be beneficial for a stable configuration of the device and co-action between the activation element and the base element. At least one retaining member may for example comprise at least one hook.

[0036] In an embodiment of the device according to the present invention, at least one locking structure comprises at least one crank-and-slider mechanism. This mechanism can also be referred to as a scotch-yoke and / or slotted link mechanism. It is for example imagine that at least one locking structure comprises at least one crank and at least one slot configured for receiving at least part of the crank. At least part of the crank is preferably slideably received within the device. At least one locking structure may also comprise at least one linear activation element and at least one crank that are configured to co-act. If applied, linear movement of the activation element can be translated into a rotational movement of the crank, which is translated into a linear movement of the base element to clampingly engage a part of a roof system, in particular a tile and / or a tile batten. The linear movement of the activation element can be initiated upon contact of the activation element with a tile and / or tile batten or alternatively in a manual manner.

[0037] Possibly, at least part of the device is made of metal, preferably sheet metal. Preferably, at least one hook member and / or at least one base element are made of metal. The device can be shaped as an elongated structure, in particular, the (structure of the) hook can be formed by a rolled steel channel. It is for example possible that the base element and / or the hook member are fully made of metal, preferably steel. Alternatively, at least part of the device could be made of aluminium. Or in yet another alternative embodiment, at least part of the device can be made of a polymer, for example, a (fiber) reinforced polymer. It is for example possible that the device is made via sheet metal forming. The shape of the hook defined by the hook member and / or the base element can for example be obtained via (elastic and / or plastic) deformation of the metal material by bending, stretching and / or drawing. The use of a device which is at least partially and preferably entirely made of metal can further contribute to the strength and rigidity thereof. It is also conceivable that at least part of the device is made by extrusion, for example extrusion of aluminium.

[0038] It is possible that the device comprises at least one unlocking element. Unlocking may also require applying a force on at least part of the locking structure and / or hook member and / or base element. Unlocking of the device and in particular of the activation element and / or the base element could for example be useful in case part of the solar panel system needs to be replaced and / or removed. Unlocking may alternatively be done by use of an additional tool, such as a screwdriver.

[0039] In a beneficial embodiment, the device comprises at least one top structure configured for mounting at least part of at least one solar panel system. It is for example imaginable that at least one top structure is configured for mounting at least one rail of a solar panel or solar panel system. At least one top structure is preferably provided at an upper part of the device. Typically, at least one top structure is provided at a distal end of the base element end / or hook member. The device could also comprise at least one coupling element for coupling with at least part of a solar panel system. At least one top structure is preferably adjustably connected to at least part of the device. In a more preferred embodiment, at least one top structure is adjustably connected to part of the device, in particular an upper part of the device, in a rotatable manner. Additionally, and / or alternatively, it is also conceivable that the position of the top structure with respect to the device is adjustable, preferably in at least two directions. Hence, it is conceivable that the height of the top structure is adjustable. It is for example imaginable that the device according to the present invention comprises a height adjustment mechanism for connecting the top structure with the hook member and base element for adjustment of the position of the top structure. At least one top structure comprises in a preferred embodiment at least two hooked shaped members configured for mounting at least part of at least one solar panel system via a snap connection. It is for example imaginable that at least one top structure comprises a click system for attaching part of a solar panel support structure or rail to the top structure.

[0040] The device according to the present invention may optionally comprise at least one pressure load distribution element. It is for example imaginable that at least one pressure load distribution element is integrated with or connected to at least part of the hook member. Said pressure distribution element may be a separate pressure load distribution element for dividing the load exerted by a roof hook to a roof tile, comprising at least one base element configured to be connected to at least part of a roof hook and at least two contact members configured for engaging at least part of a roof tile, wherein at least one contact member, and preferably each contact member, protrudes from the base element and wherein a first contact member is positioned at a distance from a second contact member. It is also possible that the hook member is provided with an integrated pressure load distribution element comprising at least two contact members configured for engaging at least part of a roof tile, wherein at least one contact member, and preferably each contact member, protrudes from the hook member and wherein a first contact member is positioned at a distance from a second contact member. Such integrated pressure load distribution element may possibly comprise two contact members, positioned at a distance from one another, configured for engaging at least part of a roof tile. This is beneficial for an efficient pressure load distribution wherein extensive pressures or random hotspots upon contact between the hook member and tile can be prevented. It is imaginable that at least two contact members are positioned substantially parallel to each other. In such configuration, the pressure load distribution can be effectively divided over said at least two contact members. It is for example imaginable that at least two contact members are positioned substantially parallel to each in a direction substantially perpendicular to a length direction of the hook member. Alternatively, it is also imaginable that at least two contact members are positioned substantially in line with each other. It is conceivable that at least two contact members are positioned behind each other. It is for example imaginable that each contact member is substantially elongated and that each contact member defines a length direction. At least two contact members can for example be positioned in line with each other seen from a length direction of the hook member. At least two contact members can for example also be positioned substantially parallel seen from a length direction of the contact members. In a beneficial embodiment, at least one contact member, preferably at least two contact members and more preferably each contact member defines a longitudinal shape. At least one contact member having a substantially longitudinal shape can positively contribute to effective spreading of a load exerted thereon. It is for example imaginable that at least one contact member is configured for contacting part of a tile via a contact region or pressure region. Alternatively, at least one contact member can be configured for contacting part of a tile via a contact point or pressure point. It is preferred that at least one contact member, preferably at least two contact members and more preferably each contact member comprises at least one contact surface for contacting at least part of a roof tile.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment, it is conceivable that at least one activation element causes at least one hook member to be displaced with respect to at least one base element.

[0042] The invention also relates to a method for mounting at least device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, in particular by using a device according to the present invention, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one device according to the present invention; and b) positioning the device upon part of the roof, in particular upon a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof in particular such that part of the roof, and in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, is enclosed by at least part of the device; and such that at least one activation element is displaced and subsequently causes displacement of the at least one base element with respect to the at least one hook member.

[0043] It can also be said that the method according to the present invention comprises the steps of:

[0044] - providing at least one roof hook for mounting a solar panel to a roof comprising at least one locking structure, in particular a device according to any of the aforementioned embodiments,

[0045] - positioning the roof hook with respect to at least part of the roof, in particular at least one roof tile and / or at least one batten;

[0046] - clampingly engaging at least part of the roof, and in particular at least part of roof tile and / or batten by at least part of the roof hook;

[0047] - locking the roof hook by activating the locking structure of the roof hook; wherein the steps of positioning, clamping and locking of the roof hook are performed simultaneously by actuating the locking structure.

[0048] The method according to the present invention has similar benefits as the device according to the present invention. The method enables that swift and efficient mounting of a device according to the present invention. It is conceivable that during step b) the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are displaced towards each other and wherein at least one locking structure prevents that the at least one base element and the at least one hook member can be mutually displaced in an outward direction. The at least one base element and the at least one hook member may be displaced in a substantially linear manner. It is also conceivable that at least part of at least one activation element is displaced in a substantially linear manner. It is beneficial if step b) is performed via contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. Possibly, at least one locking structure can be actuated by a substantially linear movement of at least one activation element. The method according to the present invention results in the same advantages as the device according to the present invention, namely that clamping, locking and positioning of the hook can take place in one movement during installation. This reduces time and thus costs for installing solar panels on a roof.

[0049] The invention will be further elucidated by means of the following non-limitative clauses.

[0050] 1 . Device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, comprising:

[0051] - at least one base element;

[0052] - at least one hook member, wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually connected or connectable and configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof;

[0053] - at least one locking structure configured for mutual locking of the at least one hook member and the at least one base element; wherein at least one locking structure is at least actuatable between: o at least one unlocked configuration wherein the device is in an unlocked position; and o at least one locked configuration wherein the device is in a locked position; and wherein the device comprises at least one activation element; and wherein at least one activation element is configured to actuate at least one locking structure from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration such that the device is actuated from an unlocked position to a locked position, and wherein the device is configured to clampingly engage with at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, at least in the locked position.

[0054] 2. Device according to clause 1 , wherein at least one locking structure is configured to displace from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration upon contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile.

[0055] 3. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises a self-locking mechanism.

[0056] 4. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one base element and at least one hook member are mutually connected by at least one locking structure.

[0057] 5. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least part of the hook member and the base element are substantially parallel in the locked position and / or unlocked position.

[0058] 6. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one activation element.

[0059] 7. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration by movement of the base element.

[0060] 8. Device according to clause 7, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated into a locked configuration by a substantially linear movement of the base element, in particular substantially parallel to part of the roof, in particular a batten and / or a tile. 9. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration by a mutual rotational movement of the hook member with respect to the base element.

[0061] 10. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration by a substantially linear movement of at least one part of the locking structure.

[0062] 11 . Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration by a rotational movement of at least one part of the locking structure.

[0063] 12. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration in a stepless fashion.

[0064] 13. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure is configured to be actuated from an unlocked configuration into a locked configuration via distinct steps.

[0065] 14. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one protrusion, wherein said protrusion preferably faces the tile and / or batten in the unlocked position.

[0066] 15. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one activation element is connected to and / or forms part of the base element.

[0067] 16. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one activation element is connected to and / or forms part on the hook member.

[0068] 17. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one activation element is movably connected to at least part of the locking structure. 18. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the base element and the hook member define a receiving space at least in the locked configuration.

[0069] 19. Device according to clause 18, wherein the receiving space is configured for receiving a tile and batten from a roof, in particular by applying a clamping force on the tile, wherein the receiving space is configured for a combined height of a tile and batten in the range of 30-65 mm.

[0070] 20. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein the hook member comprises at least two hook parts that are mutually connected and wherein the total height of these hook parts, in particular with respect to the base element, is adjustable.

[0071] 21 . Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one rod and at least one spring, in particular forming part of a spring-loaded mechanism.

[0072] 22. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one spring, in particular a leaf spring, a coil spring and / or a sheet metal spring.

[0073] 23. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one pull rope that is configured such that the locking structure is actuated from an unlocked to a locked configuration, and vice versa, upon pulling the pull rope.

[0074] 24. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one tilted plate, wherein at least one tilted plate is preferably under tension at least in the unlocked configuration of said locking structure.

[0075] 25. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one, in particular one single, point of rotation. 26. Device according to any of the previous clauses, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one scotch yoke mechanism.

[0076] 27. Method for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, in particular by using a device according to any of the previous clauses, comprising steps of: a) providing at least one device for mounting a solar panel to a roof comprising at least one locking structure, said device comprising: o at least one base element; o at least one hook member, wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually connected or connectable and configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof; o at least one locking structure configured for mutual locking of the at least one hook member and the at least one base element, which locking structure is at least actuatable between at least one unlocked configuration wherein the device is in an unlocked position and at least one locked configuration wherein the device is in a locked position, and o at least one activation element for actuating at least one locking structure; b) positioning the device which is in an unlocked positioned upon part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof in particular such that part of the roof, and in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, is enclosed by the device; and c) actuating at least one locking structure of the device from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration via at least one activation element, such that the device is actuated from an unlocked position to a locked position and such that at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof is clampingly engaged.

[0077] 28. Method according to clause 27, wherein step c) is performed via contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. 29. Method according to clause 27, wherein step c) is manually performed.

[0078] 30. Method according to any of clauses 27 to 29, wherein at least one locking structure is actuated by a substantially linear movement of at least the base element.

[0079] The invention will be further elucidated by means of non-limiting exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figures, in which:

[0080] - figures 1 a — 1 e show a first possible embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0081] - figures 2a-2f show a second possible embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0082] - figures 3a-3f show a third possible embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0083] - figures 4a-4h show a fourth possible embodiment of a device according to the invention;

[0084] - figures 5a-5d show a fifth possible embodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[0085] - figure 6 shows three positions of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention wherein the steps are shown that the device is actuated from an unlocked position towards a locked position;

[0086] - figures 7a-7c show various views of a sixth embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

[0087] - figure 7d shows the embodiment of figures 7a-7c in combination with a pressure load distribution device in a locked position on a tile and tile batten;

[0088] - figures 7e-7f show a detailed view of a locking structure as applied in the shown second embodiment of the present invention;

[0089] - figure 8 shows three positions of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention wherein the steps are shown that the device is actuated from an unlocked position towards a locked position;

[0090] - figures 9a-9b show various perspective views on a seventh embodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[0091] - figures 10a and 10b show the seventh embodiment of the device according to the present invention wherein the steps are shown that the device is actuated from an unlocked position towards a locked position; - figure 11a shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the device in a locked position co-acting with a tile and tile batten;

[0092] - figure 11 b shows a cross-section of the embodiment shown in figure 11 a; and

[0093] - figures 12a-e show a further possible embodiment of a device 900 according to the present invention.

[0094] Within these figures, similar reference numbers correspond to similar or equivalent elements or features.

[0095] Figures 1 a-1 e shows a first possible embodiment of a device 100 according to the present invention. Figures 1 a-1 c show a perspective view, where figure 1d shows a cross sectional view of the device 100. Figure 1 e shows the main components of the device 100 in a disassembled configuration. The device 100 is configured for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof. The device 100 comprises thereto a base element 101 and a hook member 102, The base element 101 and the hook member 102 are mutually connected configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. The base element 101 and the hook member 102 are mutually displaceable such that the mutual distance L between the hook member 102 and the base element 101 is adjustable. The device 100 further comprises an activation element 104 which is connected to at least part of the base element 101. The activation element 104 is configured such that displacement thereof causes displacement of the base element 101 with respect to the hook member 102. The device 100 further comprises a locking structure 103 which is configured to co-act with the activation element 104 such that at least part of the locking structure 103 causes limitation of displacement of the activation element 104 in at least one direction. The base element 101 further comprises a toothed profile 101 a for improved grip. The locking structure 103 is at least actuatable between an unlocked configuration wherein the activation element 104 can be displaced and a locked configuration wherein the activation element 104 is restricted in movement in at least one direction, and preferably in a single direction. The activation element 104 is substantially elongated and is configured to co-act with a spring 110. The spring 110 also positively contributes to the co-action between the activation element 104 and the locking structure 103. In the shown embodiment, the locking structure 103 comprises an opening 111 for receiving part of the activation element 104. The activation element 104 is connected to the base element 101 via a connection element 112. In the shown embodiment, the connection element 112 comprises a substantially flat wire or band 112. The connection element 112 is in the shown embodiment connected to the activation element 104 and the base element 101 via at least one connector 113. The connection element 112 is guided over a guiding surface 116. The guiding surface 116 is substantially rounded, in particular such that the connection element 112 can be smoothly guided over said guiding surface 116. In the shown embodiment, part of the activation element 104 is formed by an elongated rod or bar. At a distal end thereof a contact surface 115 is present. The contact surface 115 is configured for engaging at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. Upon contact between part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile, and the contact surface 115 the at least one activation element 104 will be displaced.

[0096] The opening 111 of the locking structure 103 is sized and shaped such that when the locking structure 103 and the elongated rod or bar portion of the activation element 104 are arranged substantially orthogonally or roughly perpendicular to each other the opening 111 provides sufficient space to allow the rod or bar portion to smoothly pass through, thereby allowing displacement of the activation element in a direction. The spring 110 urges the locking structure 103 towards the contact surface 115 of the activation element 104 and against a tipping flange 118. This causes the locking structure 103 to rest in a position relative to the rod or bar portion of the activation element 104 that is angled and not substantially orthogonal or perpendicular. The opening 111 of the locking structure 103 when it is in the angled position does not provide sufficient space to allow the rod or bar portion to freely move through the locking structure 103. When the contact surface 115 of the activation element 104 contacts the roof element, tile batten and / or tile, in response to the installer mounting the device on the roof and pulling the device down against the roof element, the activation element 104 is pushed against the locking structure 103 and the spring 110 which urges the locking structure toward the orthogonal / perpendicular relationship with the rod or bar portion of the activation element 104 thereby allowing the movement through the locking structure. In this way the top end of the connection element 112 is moved laterally as it is pulled by its connection to the distal end of the activation element 104 which in turn moves the lower end of the connection element 112 and the base element 101 upward as the connection element 112 is moved over the guiding surface 116.

[0097] The upward movement of the base element in response to the lateral movement of the activation element reduces the distance L between the hook member 102 and the base element 101. This reduction may continue until the roof element, i.e., the tile and batten and or the tile is clampingly sandwiched securely between the base element 101 and the hook member 102. In this configuration the teeth 101a of the base element 101 bite into the batten or tile increasing friction and security of the device on the roof.

[0098] Movement of the rod or bar portion of the activation element 104 in the reverse direction causes the locking structure to bind on the activation element and prevent movement in this direction. An installer can manually hold the locking structure in the orthogonal / perpendicular relationship to the rod or bar portion of the activation element 104 to allow the reverse movement and thus an opening or an increase in the distance between the base element 101 and the hook member 102 and thereby remove the device from the roof.

[0099] In the shown embodiment the guiding surface 116 is a smooth rounded surface of a guiding structure that is an integral portion of the hook member 102. It is imaginable that the guiding surface 116 could be part of a separate element such as a pulley that may be connected to either the base element 101 or the hook member 102.

[0100] Figures 2a-2f show a second possible embodiment of a device 200 according to the present invention. Figure 2a shows a perspective view. Figure 2b shows a side view indicating how the perspectives of figures 2c, 2d and 2e are to be interpreted. Figure 2f shows an exploded view. The device 200 comprises a base element 201 and a hook member 202 which are mutually connected and configured for co-action with a part of the roof. Similar to figures 1 a-1 e, the base element 201 and the hook member 202 are mutually displaceable such that the mutual distance between them can be adjusted. The device 200 further comprises an activation element 204 which is mutually connected to the base element 201 and the hook member 102. Displacement of the activation element 204 causes displacement of the base element 201 with respect to the hook member 202. The device 200 further comprises an optional locking structure 203 which is configured to co-act with the at least one activation element 204 such that at least part of the locking structure 203 limits displacement of the at least one activation element in at least one direction. The activation element 204 comprises thereto a toothed surface 214d which is configured to co-act with the locking structure 203. The locking structure 203 coacts with a (leaf) spring element 210. An abutting surface 203a of the locking structure 203 is configured to abut part of the toothed surface 214d. The locking structure 203 further comprises at least one opening 222 for receiving at least part of at least one activation element 204. The leaf spring 210 is connected to the hook member 202 and the locking structure 203 and urges the locking element 203 downward in respect to the hook member such that the abutting surface 203a engages the toothed surface 214d It is also possible to interpret that the toothed surface 214d forms a ratchet gear rack 214d which co-acts with the locking structure 203. In the shown embodiment, the activation element 204 has double walled configuration with inclined end portions 214c at a first distal end. At a second distal end of the activation element 204 contact surfaces 215 are present. The first inclined end portion 214c of wall 214a is positioned at a greater distance from the contact surfaces 215 than the distance from a second inclined end portion 214c, of wall 214b, and the contact surfaces 215. The walls 214a, 214b of the double walled configuration are substantially parallel. Due to the stepped configuration of the inclined end portions 214c of the side walls 214a, 214b, the activation element 204 can effectively cause a greater and stepped displacement of the base element 201 . In particular, the specific configuration of the activation element 204 and the slotted configuration of the base element 201 causes the base element 201 to be lifted upon displacement of the activation element 204. The base element comprises a slot 220 configured for co-action with the activation element 204. The slot 220 comprises inclined engaging surfaces 219a, 219b which co-act with the inclined end portions 214c of the side walls 214a, 214b of the activation element 204. It can be said that the base element 201 and the activation element 204 are mutually connected via the slot 220. The activation element 204 further comprises a retaining member 221 for retaining the activation element with respect to the base element 201. The retaining member 221 restricts the activation element 204 in at least one direction. Figures 2c, 2d and 2e show different distances L1 , L2 and L3 indicating the base element 201 being urged towards the hook member 202. When the device 200 is placed onto the roof, contact between the contact surface 215 of the activation element 204 will cause displacement of the activation element 204. Due to the slotted configuration of the base element 201 , the activation element 204 will cause displacement of the base element 201 towards the hook member 202.

[0101] As the activation element 204 is displaced laterally in response to the contact surface 215 contact with the roof element, tile and or batten and the movement of the device downward over and onto the roofing element, the first inclined end portion 214c of side wall 214a moves under and engages with the first inclined engaging surface 219a urging the base element 201 upward. When the activation element reaches the point where the first inclined engaging surface 219a reaches the top of the first inclined end portion 214c, the second side wall 214b approaches the second inclined engaging surface 219b and the second inclined end portion 214c of the second side wall 214b engages the second inclined engaging surface 219b, thereby continuing the upward urging of the base element 201 toward the hook member 202 which had begun by the first inclined end portion 214c cooperating with the first inclined engaging surface 219a.

[0102] The upward movement of the base element in response to the lateral movement of the activation element reduces the distance L between the hook member 202 and the base element 201 . This reduction may continue until the roof element, i.e. , the tile and batten and or the tile is clampingly sandwiched securely between the base element 201 and the hook member 202. In this configuration the teeth 201a of the base element 201 bite into the batten or tile increasing friction and security of the device on the roof.

[0103] The locking structure 203 prevents that the distance between the hook member 202 and the base element 201 can be widened again. The locking structure 203 needs to be actively disengaged from the toothed surface 214d to enable this increase of the distance L between the base element 201 and the hook member 202 again. Disengaging the locking structure 203 from the from the activation element 204 may be achieved by lifting the locking structure upward and compressing the spring 210. Figures 3a-3f show various perspective views of a third possible embodiment of a device 300 according to the present invention. Figure 3a shows a perspective view. Figure 3b shows a side view indicating how the perspectives of figures 3c, 3d and 3e are to be interpreted. Figure 3f shows an exploded view of the device 300 from two different side views.

[0104] The device 300 is configured for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof. The device 300 comprises thereto a base element 301 and a hook member 302. The base element 301 and the hook member 302 are mutually connected or connectable and configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof. The base element 301 and the hook member 302 are mutually displaceable such that the mutual distance between the at least one hook member and the at least one base element is adjustable, which can be seen in figures 3c, 3d and 3f. The device 300 comprises an activation element 304 which is directly or indirectly connected to at least part of the base element 301. Displacement of the activation element 304 causes displacement of the base element 301 with respect to the hook member 302. The device 300 further comprises a locking structure which is configured to co-act with the at least one activation element 304 such that at least part of the locking structure is configured to limit displacement of the at least one activation element 304 in at least one direction. In the shown embodiment, the activation element 304 has double walled configuration with inclined end portions 314c at a first distal end. At a second distal end of the activation element 304 contact surfaces 315 are present. The first inclined end portion 314c of wall 314a is positioned at a greater distance from the contact surfaces 315 than the distance from a second inclined end portion 314c, of wall 314b, and the contact surfaces 315. The walls 314a, 314b of the double walled configuration are substantially parallel. Due to the stepped configuration of the inclined end portions 314c of the side walls 314a, 314b, the activation element 304 can effectively cause greater and stepped or phased displacement of the base element 301. In particular, the specific configuration of the activation element 304 and the slotted configuration of the base element 301 causes the base element 301 to be lifted upon displacement of the activation element 304. The base element comprises a slot 320 configured for co-action with the activation element 304. The slot 320 comprises engaging surfaces 319a, 319b which co-act with the inclined end portions 314c of the side walls 314a, 314b of the activation element. 304. It can be said that the base element 301 and the activation element 304 are mutually connected via the slot 320. The activation element 304 further comprises a retaining member 321 for retaining the activation element with respect to the base element 301. The retaining member 321 restricts the activation element 304 in at least one direction. Figures 3c, 3d and 3e show different distances L1 , L2 and L3 indicating the base element 301 being urged towards the hook member 302.

[0105] As the activation element 304 is displaced laterally in response to the contact surface 315 contact with the roof element, tile and or batten and the movement of the device downward over and onto the roofing element, the first inclined end portion 314c of side wall 314a moves under and engages with the first engaging surface 319a urging the base element 301 upward. When the activation element reaches the point where the first engaging surface 319a reaches the top of the first inclined end portion 314c, the second side wall 314b approaches the second engaging surface 319b and the second inclined end portion 314c of the second side wall 314b engages the second engaging surface 319b, thereby continuing the upward urging of the base element 301 toward the hook member 302 which had begun by the first inclined end portion 314c cooperating with the first engaging surface 319a.

[0106] The upward movement of the base element 301 in response to the lateral movement of the activation element 304 reduces the distance L between the hook member 302 and the base element 301. This reduction may continue until the roof element, i.e., the tile and batten and or the tile is clampingly sandwiched securely between the base element 301 and the hook member 302. In this configuration the teeth 301 a of the base element 301 bite into the batten or tile increasing friction and security of the device on the roof.

[0107] The locking structure 303 prevents that the distance between the hook member 302 and the base element 301 can be widened again. The locking structure of the device 300 comprises the interaction between the engaging surfaces 319a and 319b and the inclined end portions 314c of the side walls 314a and 314b. when the device 300 is pulled downslope over and onto the roof element, batten and / or tile, the urging of the base element 301 toward the hook member 302 forces the teeth 301a of the base element 301 into the batten and the sharp edge of the engaging surface 319a & 319b into the inclined end portion 314a and 314b respectively. This biting into interaction between the engaging elements 319a and 319b and the inclined end portions 314a and 314b prevents the reverse movement of the activation element 304 and thereby locks the relationship between the base element 301 and the hook member 302 defining a installed distance L between the base element 301 and the hook member 302. The locking structure 303 needs to be actively disengaged to enable the increase of the distance L between the base element 301 and the hook member 302 again.

[0108] Figures 4a-4h show various perspective views of a fourth possible embodiment of a device 400 according to the present invention. Figure 4a, 4c and 4d show perspective views. Figure 4b shows a side view, and figures 4f, 4g and 4h show the device 400 in action. Figure 4e shows an exploded view of the device 400 in two side perspectives.

[0109] The device 400 comprises a base element 401 comprising corrugated top side edges 401 a for enabling better friction with the tile and / or batten positioned on top of the base element 401 . The device 400 further comprises a hook member 402 comprising pressure load distribution means in the form of protrusions 407a and 407b integrated with the bottom surface of the hook member 402. The device 400 further comprises an activation element 404 which is connected to the base element 401. Displacement of the activation element 404 causes displacement of the base element 401 with respect to the hook member 402. The activation element 404 is connected to the base element 401 via a connection element 412. The device further comprises a locking structure 403 which is configured to co-act with the activation element 404 such that at least part of the locking structure 403 is configured to limit displacement of the activation element 404 in at least one direction. In the shown embodiment, the activation element comprises a ratchet gear rack 408. The locking structure 403 is configured for co-action with at least part of said ratchet gear rack 408. In the shown embodiment the locking structure 403 comprises a locking member 409, or pawl 409 which co-acts with the toothed surface of the gear rack 408. In the shown embodiment, the activation element 404 enables movement based on a scotch-yoke mechanism and / or slider-crank mechanism. The combination of the activation element 404 and the connection element 412 basically form a crank. How the device functions is shown in figures 4f-4h. The crank co-acts with linear movement of the activation element 404.

[0110] Hence, the linear movement of the activation element 404 initiates a rotational movement of part of the connection element 412 such that part of the connection element 412 will rotate with respect to the activation element 404, and the rotational movement thereof is translated into a linear movement of the base element 401 . The linear movement of the activation element 404 is initiated upon contact of the activation element 404 with a tile and / or tile batten. The way the activation element 404 and the locking structure 403 are designed enables that upon outward displacement of the activation element 404, displacement in a return direction is prevented by the ratchet gear rack and the locking member 409. The device further comprises a top structure 420 configured for mounting at least part of at least one solar panel system. The position of the top structure 420 with respect to the hook member 402 can be adjusted via a screw connection 421 .

[0111] Figures 4f-4h shows three positions of the device 400. The figures are depicted such that the forefront faces of the base element 401 and the hook member 402 are transparent and the inside of the actuating and / or locking mechanism is shown too. The figures show the steps A, B, and C wherein the device 400 is actuated from an initial or unengaged position (A) towards a blocked or locked position (C) via an intermediate position (B). In the intermediate position (B) the device is also in a restricted position, meaning that the locking structure 403 prevents that the base element from being displaced back to the position of step A. In step A, the device 400 is placed on the roof with the hook member 402 on the tile 1 and the base element 401 below the batten. The activation element 404 is not yet in contact with the tile and thus the distance L1 between the base element 401 and the hook member 402 is at its greatest length, being larger than the combined length of the tile 1 and tile batten 2. The device is brought towards the roof by applying a force F. In step B, the device 300 moves down the roof slope and the hook slides down along the sloped tile to the point where the tile contacts the activation element 404 and force F is applied to the device by the user. The activation element 404 is pushed backwards, in reverse direction relative to the base element 401 and the hook member 402 as the force F is applied. The displacement of the activation element 404 causes the base element 401 to be displaced towards the hook member 402 in response to the rotation of the connection element 412. The linear movement of the activation element 404 is translated by the connection element 412 towards an upwards linear movement of the base element 401 , of which an intermediate result is shown in step B. In step C, the linear movement of the activation element 404 initiated in step A, is translated into a clamping co-action of the base element 401 and the hook member 402, clamping the tile 1 and batten 2 therebetween. The length L3 is therefore smaller than L2 and L2 is smaller than L1 . In the configuration of step C, wherein length L3 is shorter than length L2, the base element 401 and the hook member 402 place a clamping force on the tile 1 and batten 2, and the locking structure 403 is in the locked position. The locking structure 403 is self-locking in all positions shown in steps A, B, or C. The locked configuration is enabled by the ratchet gear rack 408 and the locking member 409. Unlocking can be done by lifting the spring element 409 upwards.

[0112] Figures 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d show various perspectives views and a cross sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a device 500 according to the present invention. The figures show an embodiment of the device 500 according to the present invention comprising one base element 501 , which comprises a toothed profile for improved grip. The device 500 further comprises a hook member 502, wherein the at least one base element 501 and the at least one hook member 502 are mutually connected such that they can mutually rotate. The hook member 502 and base element 501 are configured for co-action with a tile batten 2 and / or tile 1 arranged on a roof. The device 500 as shown further comprises a locking structure 503 configured for mutual locking of the at least one hook member 502 and the at least one base element 501 . Said locking structure is at least actuatable between an unlocked configuration such that the device is in an unlocked position and a locked configuration such that the device is in a locked position. In the embodiment shown, the device 500 comprises two activation elements 504. The activation elements 504 each comprise of a protrusion which protrudes from the base element 501 . The protrusions are configured to actuate the locking structure 503 from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration such that the device is actuated from an unlocked position (as shown in figures 5a-5c) to a locked position (as shown in figure 5d). This actuation takes place upon contact of the activation elements 504 with at least part of a roof, such as a tile. The device 500 is configured to clampingly engage with at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, in the locked position. The steps of actuating the locking structure 503 from an unlocking configuration to a locking configuration are shown in figure 6. The locking structure 503 as shown comprises a spring-loaded mechanism. The locking structure 503 shown comprises a rod 505, a coil spring 506 and a retention element 507. The locking structure 503 is connected to the base element 501 via the rod 505. The base element 501 and the rod 503 are connected via a lip 508.

[0113] Figure 5d shows a cross-section of said fifth embodiment of the device 500 as shown in figures 5a-5c in a locked configuration. The connection between the locking structure 503 and the base element 501 via the lip 508 is visible in this cross section. The retention element includes an aperture that is sized and configured to receive the rod 505. The retention element is held at an angled position by the spring 506. Due to the size of the aperture, when the retention element 507 is in the angled position movement of the rod in one direction urges the retention element 507 to increase the angle of its position reducing the area of the aperture for the rod to pass through and thus the retention element 507 binds the rod 505 and restricts movement in this direction. When the base element 501 is actuated and rotated into the clamping position in relation to the hook member 502 on the tile 1 and batten 2, the locking structure is in the locked position because the retention element 507 restricts movement of the rod 505 through the aperture. The restriction is in particular visible at points 509 where the rod 505 is in contact with the edges of the aperture in the retention element 507. The retention element includes a release handle 507A at a distal end from the aperture. When a force is applied to the release handle 507A, the retention element 507 rotates reducing the angled position of the retention element 507 aperture which increases the area the rod passes through and allows the rod to move through the aperture and the locking structure 503 to move from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0114] Figure 6 shows three sequential positions A, B, C of the embodiment of the device 500 as shown in figures 1 a-1d. In figure 6, it is shown that the device is actuated from an unlocked position towards a locked position (C). In the first step, A, the device 500 is in an unlocked configuration in the starting position, which is an unlocked position. The hook member 502 is brought into contact with the tile 1. By applying a force F to the device 500 in a linear movement, parallel to the tile 1 and batten 2, the device 500 is forced towards the tile 1 and batten 2. The protrusions of the activation element 504 touch the tile in step B. The protrusions of the activation element 504 touch the tile, and due to the force F applied, the base element 501 rotates towards the batten 2. Consequently, the locking structure is actuated to the locked configuration such that the device is in a locked position. This locked position is shown in step C. In step C, the device, in particular the base element and the hook member clampingly engage with the tile 1 and batten 2. The locking structure 503 is in the locked configuration 503I due to the friction between the rod and the coil spring of the locking structure, the locking structure is selflocking in all positions 503u, 503I.

[0115] Figures 7a-7d show various views of a sixth embodiment of the device 600 according to the present invention. Figures 7a and 7b show perspective views where figure 7c shows an exploded view. Figure 7d shows a side view. The device 600 comprises a base element 601 comprising a gripping or friction element 601a on its top surface. The device 600 further comprises a hook member 602, or also referred to as an arm 602, and a locking structure 603. The locking structure 603 is configured to actuate the base element 601 and the hook member or arm 602 to clamp or mount on a roof. The activation element 604 is configured to actuate the locking structure 603. The activation element 604 comprises in the shown embodiment a pull rope 604, having a bottom end 604a and an upper end 604b. The pull rope 604 is engaged with a bracket 606 that extends from the base element 601 . The bottom end 604a of the pull rope 604 is fixed within a slot 606a located in the lower part of the bracket 606. A middle part 604c of the pull rope 604 is engaged with a short side 605b of a sheet metal spring 605. The short side 605b of the sheet metal spring 605 comprises protrusions that are engaged with and are movably attached to a ladder-like structure 607, which is the extension of the hook member 602 and also a part of the locking structure 603. The movement of the locking structure 603 can be initiated by pulling the upper end 604b of the pull rope 604. The long side 605a of sheet metal spring 605 comprises two opposite hooks 605c and 605d, which engage with two opposite holes 606c and 606d respectively. In an engaged position, the sheet metal spring 605 is situated in a space 606b enclosed by the bracket 606. Hence, the engagement of the sheet metal spring 605 with the part of the base element 601 and the hook member 602, will be actuated once the activation element or the rope 604 is activated or pulled. Figure 7d shows a side view of the embodiment of the device 600 as shown in figures 7a-7c in combination with a pressure load distribution device 608 in a locked position on tile 1 and batten 2. The batten 2 is positioned on top of the base element 601 and the friction element 601a. This way, the batten 2 is stably positioned on top of the base element 601 . The locking structure 603 of the embodiment of the device 600 shown comprises the ladder-like structure 607, the bracket 606, the sheet metal spring 605 (situated inside the bracket 606), and the pull rope 604. The pressure load distribution device 608 comprises a base member 6081 and two contact members 6082 and 6083. The contact members 6082, 6083 are positioned at a distance from one another and are each configured for engaging at part of the roof tile 1 . The contact members 6082, 6083 protrude from the base element 6081 away from the hook member 602.

[0116] Figures 7e-7f show a detailed view of a sequence of a locking structure as applied in the shown second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7f shows a more detailed perspective and cross-sectional view of how the ladder-like structure 607 engages with the short side 605b of the sheet metal spring 605, and the long side 605a of the sheet metal spring 605 engages with the bracket 606. The pull rope 604 can be actuated, and that will initiate the linear adjustment from unlocked to locked position or vice versa. Actuation of the locking structure 603 as shown causes movement of the base element 601 towards or away from the hook member 602 or vice versa. The bottom end 604a of the pull rope 604 is securely situated in the slot 606a.

[0117] Figure 8 shows three positions A, B, and C of the embodiment of the device 600 according to the present invention wherein steps A, B, and C show that the device 600 is actuated from an unlocked position (step A) towards a locked position (step C). In the first step, A, the device 600 is in an unlocked configuration and in the starting position. The hook member 602 is brought into contact with the tile 1 . Consequently, the pressure load distribution device 608 also makes contact with tile 1 . The device 600 can be brought closer to the tile 1 and batten 2 to prepare for actuation of the locking structure 603. This is shown in step B. In step A the length L1 is a starting length, and by a linear adjustment of the base element 601 and hook member 602 actuated by the pull rope 604, L1 is shortened by means of the movement of the sheet metal spring 605 that is attached to bracket 606 with respect to the ladder-like structure 607, which brings the configuration from step B to step C, wherein length L2 is brought shorter than length L1 via linear adjustment or movement between the base element 601 and the hook member 602. The locking structure 603 is actuated by pulling the pull rope 604. Step C shows the locked position wherein length L2 is shorter than length L1 due to the ascending movement of the sheet metal spring 605 with respect to the ladder-like structure 607 actuated by the pull rope 604, and batten 2 makes stable contact with the base element 601. In this position, the receiving space between the base element 201 and the hook member 602 is fitted to the thickness of tile 1 and batten 2. The protrusions of the short side 605b (shown in figure 3f) of the sheet metal spring 605 engage openings in the ladder like portion 607 which restricts the reverse movement of the base element 601 away from the hook member 602 thus locking the locking structure 603 in the locked position clamping the tile 1 and batten 2 between the hook member 602 and the base 601 . The locking structure 603 is selflocking in all positions shown in steps A, B, or C. In order to release the locking structure 603 from the locked position to the unlocked position, thus allowing the base element 601 to move away from the hook member 602 and the device 600 to be removed from the roof, the pull rope 604 can be pulled at a reverse angle up the roof slope. This angle is approximately perpendicular to the movement of the base element towards and away from the hook member and the tile 1 and batten 2. Pulling the rope 604 in this direction applies a force to the short side 605b of the sheet metal spring 605 which moves the short side protrusions away from the recesses or openings in the ladder like structure 607 thus releasing the locking structure 603 from the locked position and allowing the base 601 to move away from the hook member 602.

[0118] Figure 9a and 9b shows various perspective views on a seventh embodiment of a device 700 according to the present invention. The device 700 comprises a base element 701 , a hook member 702, and a locking structure 703. The base element 701 can move rotationally toward the hook member 402 towards a locking configuration, and in the opposite direction during unlocking. The hook member 702 comprises a slot 705 which engages with an activation element 704. Activation element 704 comprises an extending sheet 704a which extends upward through the slot 705. The sheet 704a comprises an elongated opening. The activation element further comprises a contact surface 704b, which is substantially perpendicular to the hook member 702. The contact surface 704b is extending from the hook member 702 towards the base element 701 . The contact surface 704b is configured to come into contact with a tile and / or batten during use. Opposite from the contact surface 704b, an actuation surface 704c is positioned. The actuation surface 704c is also positioned substantially perpendicular to the hook member 702. The actuation surface 704c is positioned at a distance from the contact surface 704b. The locking structure 703 comprises a flat tongue 705a which extends from the hook member 702 through the elongated opening of the spring sheet 704a. The sheet 704a can linearly move with regard to slot 705 and the tongue 705a is consequently forced upwards / downwards and thus locking / unlocking the device. Once the activation element moves linearly, it can actuate the rotational movement of the base element 701 with regards to the hook member 702. In the locked configuration, the actuation surface 704c is in direct contact with the base element 701 .

[0119] Figure 10a shows the working principle of the locking structure 703 of the device 700. Figure 10b shows three positions of said seventh embodiment of the device 700 according to the present invention. Once the activation element 704 is actuated linearly in the direction M1 A, the activation element 704 will actuate the rotational movement of the base element 702 in the direction M2. This is further shown in intermediate steps A,B,C. Steps A, B, and C are shown perspectively, and A’, B’, and C’ are shown cross-sectionally, illustrating that device 700 is actuated from an unlocked position (A) towards a locked position (C), via an intermediate position (B). The shown intermediate position is also an unlocked position. In the step A, A', the device 700 is in an unlocked configuration and placed on the roof with the hook member 702 on the tile 1 and the base element 701 loosely below the batten 2 in the starting position. In step B, B’, the device is moved down the roof slope bringing the tile 1 (and the batten 2 is attached to the tile 1 ) in contact with the contact surface 704b of the activation element 704. In step C, C’, the device is moved further down the roof slope introducing a force F in linear movement on the activation element 704, the activation element 704 which makes contact with the tile 1 and will move linearly with regard to the slot 705 and the tongue 705a. the linear movement of the activation element actuates rotational movement of the base element 701 until the top of the base element presents a clamping force on the tile 1 and batten 2 against the hook member 702 thus bringing the device to the locked position, as seen in step C. The angle of the sheet spring 704a over the tongue 705a reduces the elongated opening thus restricting the movement of the tongue through the elongated opening which further restricts the movement of the activation element and the reverse rotational movement of the base element. The locking structure 703 is self-locking in all positions shown in steps A, B, or C. In order to release the locking structure 703 from the locking position the sheet spring 704a can be pulled such that the angle to the tongue 705a is reduced and the elongated opening provides greater space for the tongue 705a to move through the sheet spring 404a thus allowing the activation element 704 to move and the base element to rotate away from the batten 2, tile 1 and hook member 702.

[0120] Figure 11a shows a perspective view of assembly 11 of a device 800 according to the present invention in a locked position co-acting with a tile 1 and batten 2, and figure 10b shows a cross-section of the embodiment shown in figure 10a. The device 800 comprises a base element 801 attached to the batten 2, and a hook member 802 comprising pressure load distribution elements 804. The two pressure load distribution elements 804 are brought in contact with the tile 1 . The locking structure 803 is shown in a locked configuration. The activation element comprised in the locking structure 803 is advantageous for a more efficient mounting system of solar panels. It is to be understood that the assembly 10 can also be used with other non-restrictive embodiments shown and discussed in the previous figures.

[0121] Figures 12a-e show a further possible embodiment of a device 900 according to the present invention. Figure 12a shows a perspective view. Figure 12b shows a side view. The shown embodiment has several similar or equivalent features to the embodiments shown in figures 2a-3f. The device 900 comprises a base element 901 and a hook member 902 which are mutually connected and configured for coaction with a part of the roof. The device 900 further comprises an activation element 904 which is mutually connected or connectable to the base element 901 and the hook member 902. Displacement of the activation element 904 causes displacement of the base element 901 with respect to the hook member 902, or vice versa. The device 900 may further comprise a locking structure for limiting displacement of the at least one activation element 904 in at least one direction. Figure 12b shows that the shown embodiment has a substantially double 90 degree angle for optimal force transmission, shown at regions H. Figure 12c shows a detailed view of the activation element 904 which has double walled configuration with inclined end portions 214c at a first distal end. At a second distal end of the activation element 904 contact surfaces 915 are present. The first inclined end portion 914c of wall 914a is positioned at a greater distance from the contact surfaces 915 than the distance from a second inclined end portion 914c, of wall 914b, and the contact surfaces 915. The walls 914a, 914b of the double walled configuration are substantially parallel. Due to the stepped configuration of the inclined end portions 914c of the side walls 914a, 914b, the activation element 904 can effectively cause a greater and stepped displacement of the base element 901 . The two slopes 914a, 914b engage to the base element 901 one after another. The configuration is beneficial for the adjustability and the angle determines the ratio between the vertical and horizontal translation. The base element 901 of this particular embodiment is shown in in two perspective views in figure 12d. In particular, the specific configuration of the activation element 904 and the slotted configuration of the base element 901 causes the base element 901 to be lifted upon displacement of the activation element 904. The base element 901 comprises a slot 920 configured for co-action with the activation element 904. The slot 920 comprises engaging surfaces 919 which may co-act with parts of the activation element 904. The slot 920 is an elongates slot which extends into the bottom part of the base element 901. This configuration is beneficial since it makes manufacturing easier without affecting the strength of the base element 901. The base element 901 defines a receiving volume for receiving part of the activation element 904 and / or the hook member 902. The receiving volume is defined by a C- shaped configuration of two inwardly protruding retainers 929. Further, flanges 939 are present to guide the activation element 904 and to provide strength. In the shown embodiment, the slot 920 comprises chamfers which form the engaging surfaces 919. The base element 901 and the activation element 904 can be mutually connected via the slot 920. The activation element 904 further comprises a retaining member 921 for retaining the activation element with respect to the base element 901 . In area W, a narrow part with a widening 931 is provided, which enables guiding of the activation element 904 at least in its outer position. Further, on the upper side of the contact surfaces 915 upper contact surfaces 935 are present configured for contact with a tile or batten in particular when the device is installed. The hook member 902 is shown in more detail in figure 12e where three perspectives of the hook member 902 are shown. Part of the shape of the hook member 902 is complementary to the shape of the base element 901 . Part of the hook member 902 is configured to enclose part of the base element 901 , in particular in a form-fitting manner. In the shown embodiment, a rounded outer wall structure 949 of the hook member 902 has a tight fit with the C-shaped part of the base element 901 . Part of the hook member 902 is curved to increase the allowable tile pressure during use. The curvature K is shown at the elongated part of the hook member 902. The base element further fines a double U-shaped guide 959 configured to guide at least part of the activation element 904. Part of the hook member is complementary in shape to part of the base element 901 to enhance the mutual cooperation. The hook member 902 comprises thereto a recessed ridge part 958. Grip parts 969 are shown at a distal end of the hook member 902. A strengthening member 979 is provided to improve strength by preventing the C- shape of the rounded outer wall structure 949 from bending open. The locking structure 903 is integrally formed within the activation element 904.

[0122] It will be clear that the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments which are illustrated and described here, but that countless variants are possible within the framework of the attached claims, which will be obvious to the person skilled in the art. In this case, it is conceivable for different inventive concepts and / or technical measures of the above-described variant embodiments to be completely or partly combined without departing from the inventive idea described in the attached claims.

[0123] From the roof element including the tile and batten as shown in some of the figures are to be understood that these same or similar roof elements can be found in further embodiments of the devices and description according to the invention as well. From the top structure configured for mounting at least part of at least one solar panel system and its connection as shown in part of the figures it is to be understood that these same or similar structures and interactions may be present in other embodiments as elucidated in the figures and description as well.

[0124] The verb 'comprise' and its conjugations as used in this patent document are understood to mean not only 'comprise', but to also include the expressions 'contain', 'substantially contain', 'formed by' and conjugations thereof. The wording ‘locking configuration’ and ‘locking position’ as used in this patent document are understood to also include to ‘locked configuration’ and ‘locked position’ and vice versa. The wording ‘unlocking configuration’ and ‘unlocking position’ as used in this patent document are understood to refer also to ‘unlocked configuration’ and ‘unlocked position’ and vice versa. Within the context of the application, locking can mean locking of displacement in at least one direction or restricting movement in at least one direction.

Claims

Claims1 . Device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, comprising:- at least one base element; and- at least one hook member; wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually connected or connectable and configured for co-action with a part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof; wherein the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are mutually displaceable such that the mutual distance between the at least one hook member and the at least one base element is adjustable, and wherein the device comprises at least one activation element which is directly or indirectly connected to at least part of the at least one base element and wherein displacement of at least one activation element causes displacement of the at least one base element with respect to the at least one hook member, and wherein the device comprises at least one locking structure which is configured to co-act with the at least one activation element such that at least part of the locking structure is configured to limit displacement of the at least one activation element in at least one direction.

2. Device according to claim 1 , wherein at least one activation element is connected to at least part of at least one base element via at least one connection element.

3. Device according to claim 2, wherein at least one connection element comprises at least one band, strap, cable and / or wire.

4. Device according to any of the previous claims, comprising at least one guiding surface over which at least one connection element, in particular at least one band, can be guided.

5. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one contact surface configured for engaging at least part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof,wherein contact between part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or a tile, and at least one contact surface causes the at least one activation element to displace.

6. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one activation element is at least partially located between at least part of at least one base element and at least part of at least one hook member.

7. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one opening for receiving at least part of at least one activation element.

8. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one locking structure is at least actuatable between: o at least one unlocked configuration wherein the device is in an unlocked position; and o at least one locked configuration wherein the device is in a locked position.

9. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one locking member.

10. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one locking structure comprises at least one ratchet gear rack and at least one pawl.11 . Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one spring.

12. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one activation element is movably connected to at least part of at least one locking structure.

13. Device according to any of the previous claims, comprising at least one unlocking element.

14. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one base element comprises at least one slot and wherein at least part of at least one activation element is received within said slot.

15. Device according to claim 14, wherein the at least one slot comprises at least one engaging surface for co-action with at least part of the at least one activation element.

16. Device according to claim 15, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one inclined end portion configured to engage at least part of at least one engaging surface.

17. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one activation element comprises at least one retaining member for retaining said activation element with respect to at least part of at least one base element.

18. Device according to any of the previous claims, wherein at least one locking structure forms integral part of at least one activation element.

19. Device according to any of the previous claims, comprising at least one top structure configured for mounting at least part of at least one solar panel system.

20. Method for mounting at least device for mounting at least one solar panel to a roof, comprising steps of: a) providing at least one device according to any of the previous claims; and b) positioning the device upon part of the roof, in particular upon a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof in particular such that part of the roof, and in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof, is enclosed by at least part of the device; and such that at least one activation element is displaced and subsequently causes displacement of the at least one base element with respect to the at least one hook member.21 . Method according to claim 20, wherein during step b) the at least one base element and the at least one hook member are displaced towards each other and wherein at least one locking structure prevents that the at least one base elementand the at least one hook member can be mutually displaced in a direction away from each other.

22. Method according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein step b) is performed via contact of at least one activation element with part of the roof, in particular a tile batten and / or tile arranged on the roof.

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