Carrier system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame, and photovoltaic installation comprising the carrier system

Abstract

The carrier system according to the invention for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame comprises a first post (4) and a second post (4). The carrier system additionally comprises a first crossmember (5), which is fastenable to the first post (4), and a second crossmember (5), which is fastenable to the second post (4), and also a first holder (6). The first holder (6) has a first plug-in tab (6.1) for fitting into the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1) and a second plug-in tab (6.2) for fitting into the first crossmember (5). The carrier system additionally comprises a fastening means (7), by way of which the first holder (6) is fixable to the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1). The carrier system furthermore comprises a second holder (6), which has a first plug-in tab (6.1) for fitting into the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1) and a second plug-in tab (6.2) for fitting into the second crossmember (5). The carrier system additionally comprises a further fastening means (7), by way of which the second holder (5) is fixable to the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Support system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame and photovoltaic system with the support system

[0003] Technical area

[0004] The invention relates to a support system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame and a photovoltaic system with the support system.

[0005] The support system and the photovoltaic modules mounted on it are preferably used for an open-air photovoltaic system. Open-air land is defined as any type of land that is technically and legally suitable for the construction of a PV system. The PV system can be used both as an open-air PV system and as an agri-PV system.

[0006] State of the art

[0007] According to DIN SPEC 91434, agri-photovoltaics, or Agri-PV or APV for short, refers to the combined use of one and the same area of ​​land for agricultural production as the primary use and for electricity production by means of a PV system as the secondary use. This means that an area can be used simultaneously for agricultural crop production (photosynthesis) and for solar power generation (photovoltaics or PV). Agricultural land refers to arable land, permanent grassland, permanent pastureland or an area used for permanent crops. PV systems can be categorized as ground-level and high-mounted systems. In high-mounted systems, the PV modules are located at a height of at least 2.1 meters above the ground (see the section on DIN SPEC 91434 below).In this case, agricultural use takes place below the PV modules, while in ground-level systems the areas between the PV modules or PV module rows are typically cultivated.

[0008] The advantages of ground-level systems compared to high-mounted systems are primarily their lower costs and their tendency to have less impact on the landscape. High-mounted systems, on the other hand, use the land more efficiently and can offer crops greater protection from negative environmental influences. A fundamental rule for all system categories is that the area of ​​agri-PV systems must continue to be used for agricultural purposes.

[0009] Description of the invention

[0010] One object of the invention is to provide a support system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame, with which a PV system can be set up quickly, easily and safely.

[0011] Advantageously, the support system according to the invention requires very few different components. A further advantage of the support system according to the invention is that posts can be used that can be manufactured in large quantities at particularly low cost.

[0012] The object is achieved by a support system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame having the features specified in patent claim 1.

[0013] The support system according to the invention for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame comprises a first post and a second post. It also comprises a first cross member which can be fastened to the first post, and a second cross member which can be fastened to the second post, as well as a first holder. The first holder has a first plug-in tab for hooking into the frame of the photovoltaic module and a second plug-in tab for hooking into the first cross member. The support system also comprises a fastening means with which the first holder can be fixed to the frame of the photovoltaic module. The support system furthermore comprises a second holder which has a first plug-in tab for hooking into the frame of the photovoltaic module and a second plug-in tab for hooking into the second cross member.The support system also includes an additional fastening device with which the second bracket can be fixed to the frame of the photovoltaic module.

[0014] Advantageous further developments of the invention result from the features specified in the dependent patent claims.

[0015] In one embodiment of the support system according to the invention, the posts have openings which are designed so that the cross members can be inserted through the posts.

[0016] In another embodiment of the support system according to the invention, the posts have openings into which cross beams can be suspended.

[0017] In an additional embodiment of the support system according to the invention, the fastening means are screws or rivets.

[0018] In a further embodiment of the carrier system according to the invention, the fastening means is a bead on the bracket, which is provided to create a positive and / or non-positive connection between the bracket and the frame. The bead can be designed, for example, in a nose-shaped, hook-shaped, or claw-shaped configuration.

[0019] In a further development of the support system according to the invention, a third holder is provided which is identical in construction to the first holder in order to fasten the photovoltaic module to the first cross member.

[0020] In another development of the support system according to the invention, a fourth holder is provided which is identical in construction to the first holder in order to fasten the photovoltaic module to the second cross member.

[0021] In an additional development of the carrier system according to the invention, the first plug-in tab of the first holder is arranged transversely to the second plug-in tab of the first holder. The holder is particularly suitable for being fastened to the vertical section of the frame. In a further development of the carrier system according to the invention, the first plug-in tab of the first holder and the second plug-in tab of the first holder are arranged parallel. The holder is particularly suitable for being fastened to the horizontal section of the frame.

[0022] In the carrier system according to the invention, the first plug-in tab can be provided with a thread. This facilitates the installation of the fastening means or screw.

[0023] In the carrier system according to the invention, the second plug-in bracket can also be provided with a hole for receiving a screw. This makes it easier to screw the plug-in bracket to the cross member.

[0024] Furthermore, in the support system according to the invention, the first and / or second cross member can be designed as a hollow profile. The hollow profile can be, for example, C-shaped or tubular. This allows the cross member to be lightweight yet sufficiently stable.

[0025] It is advantageous if, in the carrier system according to the invention, the first bracket is movable on the first cross member and the second bracket is movable on the second cross member. This allows assembly-related tolerances to be compensated. In a further development of the carrier system according to the invention, the brackets are made of die-cast plastic, die-cast aluminum, or steel.

[0026] In a further development of the support system according to the invention, the holders are designed as bent sheet metal parts.

[0027] In another embodiment of the carrier system according to the invention, the holder has a third plug-in bracket for hooking into the cross member. The first plug-in bracket and the third plug-in bracket are arranged opposite one another, so that the holder is axially symmetrical to the vertical axis.

[0028] Short description of the drawings

[0029] In the following, the invention is further explained with several embodiments using several figures.

[0030] Figure 1a shows a first possible embodiment of a holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0031] Figure 1b shows the first embodiment of the holder in another three-dimensional view.

[0032] Figure 1c shows the first embodiment of the bracket in the view from the rear (side facing the frame).

[0033] Figure 1d shows the first embodiment of the bracket in a side view. Figure 1e shows the first embodiment of the bracket in a front view (side facing the cross member).

[0034] Figure I f shows the first embodiment of the holder in plan view.

[0035] Figure 2a shows a second possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0036] Figure 2b shows the second embodiment of the holder in another three-dimensional view.

[0037] Figure 2c shows the second embodiment of the bracket in the rear view.

[0038] Figure 2d shows the second embodiment of the bracket in side view.

[0039] Figure 2e shows the second embodiment of the holder in the front view.

[0040] Figure 3a shows a third possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0041] Figure 3b shows the third embodiment of the holder in another three-dimensional view.

[0042] Figure 3c shows the third embodiment of the bracket in a rear view. Figure 3d shows the third embodiment of the bracket in a side view.

[0043] Figure 3e shows the third embodiment of the holder in the front view.

[0044] Figure 4a shows a fourth possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0045] Figure 4b shows the fourth embodiment of the holder in another three-dimensional view.

[0046] Figure 4c shows the fourth embodiment of the holder in an additional three-dimensional view.

[0047] Figure 4d shows the fourth embodiment of the holder in a rear view.

[0048] Figure 4e shows the fourth embodiment of the bracket in side view.

[0049] Figure 4 f shows the fourth embodiment of the holder in a front view.

[0050] Figure 5a shows a fifth possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0051] Figure 5b shows the fifth embodiment of the holder in a further three-dimensional view.

[0052] Figure 5c shows the fifth embodiment of the holder in a front view. Figure 5d shows the fifth embodiment of the holder in a side view.

[0053] Figure 5e shows the fifth embodiment of the holder in plan view.

[0054] Figure 6a shows a sixth possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0055] Figure 6b shows the sixth embodiment of the holder in a further three-dimensional view.

[0056] Figure 7a shows a seventh possible embodiment of the holder in a three-dimensional view.

[0057] Figure 7b shows the seventh embodiment of the holder in another three-dimensional view.

[0058] Figure 8 shows an example of a photovoltaic system in a front view.

[0059] Figure 9 shows the photovoltaic system in a three-dimensional view.

[0060] Figure 10 shows the photovoltaic system in side view.

[0061] Figure 11 shows an enlarged section of the photovoltaic system in a three-dimensional view. Figure 12 shows a section of the support system with two photovoltaic modules in a three-dimensional view.

[0062] Figure 13 shows a section of another embodiment of the support system with two photovoltaic modules in a three-dimensional view.

[0063] Figure 14 shows a section of another embodiment of the support system with four photovoltaic modules in a three-dimensional view.

[0064] Figure 15 shows a section of an additional embodiment of the support system with two photovoltaic modules in a three-dimensional view.

[0065] Figure 16 shows a section of another embodiment of the support system with two photovoltaic modules in a three-dimensional view.

[0066] Figure 17 shows a section of a photovoltaic system in the front view, with the PV modules mounted horizontally.

[0067] Figure 18 shows a possible embodiment of a PV module and four different brackets arranged on the frame of the PV module in a first three-dimensional view.

[0068] Figure 19 shows the PV module and the four different brackets on the frame of the PV module in a second three-dimensional view. Figure 20 shows the PV module and the four different brackets on the frame of the PV module in a first three-dimensional view from behind.

[0069] Figure 21 shows the PV module and the four different brackets on the frame of the PV module in a second three-dimensional view from behind.

[0070] Ways to implement the invention

[0071] A possible embodiment of the support system according to the invention is shown in Figure 11. Three PV modules 1 and their fastening to a post 4 are shown as examples.

[0072] The PV modules 1 each have a photoactive cell structure 3. The photoactive cell structure 3, in turn, has two glass panes between which the photoactive cells are arranged. The two glass panes contribute, among other things, to the dimensional stability of the PV module and to the protection of the photoactive cells. However, other PV modules can also be used, for example, those in which one side is made of glass and the other side of plastic.

[0073] The photoactive cell structure 3 is preferably bifacial. Unlike a one-sided active photovoltaic module, in which only the front of the photovoltaic module is light-active, in a bifacial photovoltaic module both sides of the PV module have a light-active surface. It therefore has a light-active surface on both its front and its back. The bifacial photovoltaic module can therefore convert both the light that hits the front of the photovoltaic module and the light that hits the back of the photovoltaic module into electricity. The bifacial photovoltaic module generates a higher solar yield than the one-sided light-active photovoltaic module with the same area.

[0074] The PV modules 1 are each equipped with a frame 2. The frame 2 serves, among other things, to make the PV module 1 dimensionally stable.

[0075] The individual components of the support system are preferably dimensioned so that they can absorb the weight of the PV modules 1 and any wind load that may occur. The support system for a photovoltaic module 1, shown in Figure 11, for example, comprises a first post 4 and a second post 4, with the PV module 1 being arranged between two posts 4 and supported by them. Such a structure can be expanded as desired and supplemented with any number of PV modules in order to construct a PV system of any size.

[0076] The post 4 can, as shown in Figure 11, be designed, for example, as a hollow profile post with a rectangular cross-section. The post 4 according to Figure 11 has the shape of a tube. Instead, the post 4 can also be round. It is not absolutely necessary to design the post 4 with a closed cross-section. For example, the post 4 can have a C-shaped cross-section. It is also conceivable to design the post 4 with a U-shaped cross-section. Another possible shape for a suitable post is shown in Figures 13, 14 and 15. In Figures 13 - 15, the post is identified by the reference number 14.

[0077] The posts 4 each have a longitudinal axis, wherein the longitudinal axis extends in the vertical direction when the posts 4 are mounted.

[0078] The support system also includes a first cross member 5, which can be attached to the first post 4. The post 4 has a series of openings 4.1 designed so that the cross member 5 can be inserted through the post 4. When assembled, the longitudinal axis of the cross member 5 runs horizontally, i.e., at a right angle to the longitudinal axis of the post 4.

[0079] The support system further comprises a second cross member 5, which can be attached to the second post 4. The second cross member 5 is preferably structurally identical to the first cross member 5. Each of the cross members 5 can, for example, be a hollow profile. It can be tubular (see Fig. 11). The cross member 5 is preferably long enough to be used to attach two adjacent PV modules 1.

[0080] The carrier system also includes a first bracket 6.

[0081] The holder 6 has a first plug-in tab 6.1 for hooking into the frame 2 of the photovoltaic module 1 and a second plug-in tab 6.2 for hooking into the first cross member 5. The support system also comprises a fastening means 7 with which the first holder 6 can be fixed to the frame 2 of the photovoltaic module 1. The fastening means 7 can be a screw or a rivet, for example. The support system further comprises a second holder 6, which has a first plug-in tab 6.1 for hooking into the frame 2 of the photovoltaic module 1 and a second plug-in tab 6.2 for hooking into the second cross member 5. The first and second holders 6 are preferably structurally identical.

[0082] The support system also comprises a further fastening means 7 with which the second bracket 5 can be fixed to the frame 2 of the photovoltaic module 1.

[0083] Figures 1a to 1f show various views of a first possible embodiment of the holder 6. The first possible embodiment of the holder 6 has, in addition to the first plug-in tab 6.1 and the second plug-in tab 6.2, a third plug-in tab 6.3. The first plug-in tab 6.1 and the third plug-in tab 6.3 are shaped and arranged such that they are suitable for hanging in the frame 2 of the PV module 1. The first plug-in tab 6.1 and the third plug-in tab 6.3 are advantageously arranged mirror-symmetrically to the z-axis of the holder and can be used to be hooked into the frame 2 on the left or right side of the PV module 1. Because the holder 6 can be hooked into both sides of the frame 2 as a universal holder, two differently designed holders are not necessary. The number of different components required is kept to a minimum.The bracket 6 is preferably used to be attached to the vertically extending section of the frame 2. The first plug-in tab 6.1 and the third plug-in tab 6.3 are advantageously equipped with a thread 6.5. When the plug-in tab 6.1 or the plug-in tab 6.3 is suspended in the frame 2, a fastening means 7, such as a screw, can be screwed through the frame 2 into the thread 6.5 to prevent the bracket 6 from slipping relative to the frame 2.

[0084] The second plug-in bracket 6.2 is shaped so that it can be inserted over the cross member 5. The slight bevel at the lower end of the plug-in bracket 6.2 facilitates the insertion of the plug-in bracket 6.2 onto the cross member 5.

[0085] The first plug-in tab 6.1 and the second plug-in tab 6.2 are preferably arranged orthogonally to one another. The third plug-in tab 6.1 and the second plug-in tab 6.2 are also preferably arranged orthogonally to one another. The arrangement and orientation of the holder 66 on the frame 2 of the PV module is shown in various views in Figures 18-21.

[0086] Another installation example in which the bracket 6 is used is shown in Figure 12. This shows the lower areas of two adjacent PV modules 1 and their connection to the post 4 in between. The brackets 6 are also used in the installation example according to Figure 13. While post 4 is used in the installation example according to Figure 12, post 14 is used in the example according to Figure 13. The two posts 4 and 14 differ in their cross-section. In post 14, the holes 14.1 are offset inwards (see Figure 13). This has the advantage that horizontal forces caused by wind can be better absorbed because the cross members 5 can be supported on the vertical flanks 14.2 of the post 14. The post 14 is designed so that it can absorb the highest possible bending moment while using the lowest possible material.

[0087] The post 14 is preferably open on one long side (see Figure 13). Cables can be laid and routed through this opening in the post 14. The cables can, for example, be the power cables leading from the PV modules 1.

[0088] A second possible embodiment of the bracket is shown in various views in Figures 2a to 2e. The bracket 16 shown there, like the bracket 6, serves to attach the frame 2 to the post 4 via the cross member 5. In this embodiment, the bracket 16 comprises two components that are firmly connected to one another. The two components can, for example, be welded to one another or inseparably connected to one another in another way, such as clinching. The bracket 16 also has a first plug-in tab 16.1, which is intended to be hooked onto the cross member 5. The bracket 16 also comprises a web 16.7 and a web 16.8. The web 16.7 has two lugs 16.4 at its free end. The web 16.8 also has two lugs 16.6 at its free end. The webs 16.7 and 16.8 can be hooked onto the frame 2 using the lugs 16.4 and 16.6.The arrangement and orientation of the bracket 16 on the frame 2 of the PV module is shown in different views in Figures 18 and 21.

[0089] Similar to the bracket 6, the bracket 16 can have one or more threads 16.5. For this purpose, for example, a press-in nut can be pressed into a hole provided on the bracket 16.

[0090] A third possible embodiment of the bracket is shown in various views in Figures 3a to 3e. The bracket 26 shown here, like the bracket 6, also serves to fasten the frame 2 to the post 4 via the cross member 5. The bracket 26 comprises a first plug-in tab 26.1, a second plug-in tab 26.2 and a third plug-in tab 26.3. The first plug-in tab 26.1 and the third plug-in tab 26.3 are advantageously each equipped with a thread 26.5. When the plug-in tab 26.1 or the plug-in tab 26.3 is hooked into the frame 2, a fastening means 7, such as a screw, can be screwed through the frame 2 into the thread 26.5 to prevent the bracket 26 from slipping relative to the frame 2. Unlike the bracket 6, the second plug-in tab 26.2 in the bracket 26 is less deep.The arrangement and orientation of the bracket 26 on the frame 2 of the PV module is shown in different views in Figures 18 - 21.

[0091] The cross member 5 can be constructed, for example, as a tube or as a solid material (steel plate). Constructing the cross member 5 as a solid material has the advantage that it can absorb a higher moment than a tubular cross member with the same cross section. However, a solid cross member also requires more material.

[0092] A fourth possible embodiment of the bracket is shown in various views in Figures 4a to 4f. Like the bracket 6, the bracket 36 according to Figures 4a to 4f also serves to fasten the frame 2 to the post 4. The bracket 36 is advantageously manufactured as an injection-molded component. Aluminum or plastic, for example, can be used as the material. The bracket 36 has a first plug-in tab 36.1 and a second plug-in tab 36.2. As with the bracket 6, the first plug-in tab 36.1 of the bracket 36 is also intended to be hooked onto the frame 2. The second plug-in tab 36.2 is designed to be hooked onto the cross member 5. The arrangement and orientation of the bracket 36 on the frame 2 of the PV module is shown in various views in Figures 18 - 21.

[0093] A fifth possible embodiment of the bracket is shown in various views in Figures 5a to 5e and bears the reference numeral 46. Like the bracket 6, the bracket 46 also serves to fasten the frame 2 via the cross member 5 to the post 4. In contrast to the bracket 6, the bracket 46 only has a first plug-in tab 46.1 and a second plug-in tab 46.2. A third plug-in tab is missing. The first plug-in tab 46.1 and a second plug-in tab 46.2 have the same function as the plug-in tabs 6.1 and 6.2. The first plug-in tab 46.1 is advantageously equipped with a thread 46.5. When the plug-in tab 46.1 is hooked into the frame 2, a fastening means 7, for example a screw, can be screwed through the frame 2 into the thread 46.5. This prevents the bracket 46 from slipping relative to the frame 2. The holder 46 is optimized in particular with regard to minimal resource consumption.

[0094] If the fastener is a rivet, the upper projection 46.2 of the plug-in tab 46.1 can be omitted. The hole for inserting the rivet can also be placed further down in the tab 46.1.

[0095] A sixth possible embodiment of the bracket is shown in two different views in Figures 6a and 6b. Like bracket 6, bracket 56 also serves to attach frame 2 to post 4. Unlike bracket 6, bracket 56 has only a first plug-in tab 56.1 and a second plug-in tab 56.2. A third plug-in tab is missing. The first plug-in tab 56.1 and a second plug-in tab 56.2 have the same function as plug-in tabs 6.1 and 6.2.

[0096] Typically, the frame 2 contains several mounting holes 2.1 defined by the module manufacturer and approved for fastening. In Figure 15, one of the mounting holes 2.1 is visible, the other is concealed by the bracket 56. The first plug-in tab 56.1 is advantageously equipped with two threads 56.5. This allows the bracket 56 to be screwed tightly to the frame 2 on the left and right sides of the frame in the mounting hole provided for this purpose without changing the distance of the bracket 56 from the outer edge of the PV module 1. If the bracket 56 is to be fastened to the left side of the frame, one thread is used, and if the bracket 56 is to be fastened to the right side of the frame, the other of the two threads 56.5 is used.

[0097] When the plug-in tab 56.1 is hooked into the frame 2, a fastening means 7, for example a screw, can be screwed through the frame 2 into the thread 56.5. This prevents the holder 56 from slipping relative to the frame 2. The two plug-in tabs 56.1 and 56.2 are, unlike the plug-in tabs 6.1 and 6.2, not orthogonal, but arranged parallel to one another. The holder 56 is preferably used to be fastened to the horizontally running section of the frame 2. The holder 6, on the other hand, is preferably used to be fastened to the vertically running section of the frame 2. An assembly example in which the holder 56 is used is shown in Figure 15. The holder 56, like the holder 46, is optimized in particular with regard to minimal resource consumption.

[0098] A seventh possible embodiment of the holder is shown in two different views in Figures 7a and 7b and bears the reference number 66. The holder 66, like the holder 6, also serves to fasten the frame 2 to the post 4. The holder 66 is preferably used to be fastened to the horizontally running section of the frame 2. The holder 66 comprises, like the holder 6, a first plug-in tab 66.1, a second plug-in tab 66.2 and a third plug-in tab 66.3. The first plug-in tab 66.1 is advantageously equipped with a thread 66.5. The second plug-in tab 66.2 and the third plug-in tab 66.3 are advantageously arranged mirror-symmetrically to the z-axis of the holder 66 and can be used to be hooked onto the left or right side of the cross member 5.Because the bracket 66 can be hung as a universal bracket on both sides of the cross member 5 and can serve as an upper or lower bracket, two or more differently designed brackets are not necessary. The number of required, different components is kept to a minimum. An assembly example in which the bracket 66 is used is shown in Figures 14 and 16. The two plug-in brackets 66.1 and 66.2 are, unlike the plug-in brackets 6.1 and 6.2, not arranged orthogonally to one another, but parallel to one another. The bracket 66 is preferably used to be fastened to the horizontally extending section of the frame 2.

[0099] The bracket 56 can be inserted into the recess of the bracket 66 (see Figure 14). The bracket 56 is preferably attached to the top and the bracket 66 to the bottom of the frame 2.

[0100] The fastening means 7 can also be designed as a bead on the holder 6, 16, 26, 36, 46, 56 or 66. It is provided to create a positive and / or non-positive connection between the holder 6, 16, 26, 36, 46, 56 or 66 and the frame 2. The bead is preferably arranged on the holder where it is easy to produce and fulfills its function in the best possible way. The bead can be arranged, for example, on the first plug-in tab 6.1 of the holder 6. The bead can be present instead of or in addition to the thread 6.5. When the plug-in tab 6.1 is plugged onto the frame 2, the bead snaps into place on the frame or in a mounting hole 2.1 provided on the frame. Examples of mounting holes 2 provided in the frame 2 1 are shown in Figures 14 and 15. The locations of the mounting holes 2 . 1 are usually defined by the manufacturer of the PV module 1 .The bead can be mounted with a slight spring so that it snaps into or onto the frame 2. The connection thus formed is a snap connection. The bead can be, for example, nose-shaped, hook-shaped, or claw-shaped. The bead can be produced, for example, by deforming the material of the bracket into a bead at a defined location. The deformation can be achieved, for example, by a stamping process.

[0101] Assembly example

[0102] To install the photovoltaic system, sleeves 20 are anchored in the ground. The sleeves 20 are preferably rammed into the ground. This can be done, for example, with the help of a pile driver. In this case, the sleeves 20 are preferably designed so that they can absorb the forces generated by the pile driver without damage. The sleeves 20 are placed in the ground at a defined distance. The distance is preferably chosen so that the PV modules 1 to be installed later have sufficient space. The distance therefore depends, among other things, on the size and desired orientation of the PV modules 1. Once one or more of the sleeves 20 have been placed, a post 4 is fastened to the sleeve 20. In the next step, a cross member 5 is pushed through the post 4. The vertical position of the cross member 5 depends on the height at which the PV module 1 is to be installed. The cross member 5 is inserted into that opening 4 .1 is inserted into post 4, corresponding to the desired height. This also allows unevenness in the terrain to be compensated for.

[0103] In a further step, the first plug-in tab 6.1 of the holder 6 is hooked onto the frame 2 of the PV module 1 to be attached. The holder 6 is then pushed into the desired position on the frame 2 and secured using the fastening means 7. If the fastening means 7 is a screw, the holder 6 is screwed to the frame with the screw.

[0104] Advantageously, a further bracket 6 is attached to the frame on the other side of the frame 2.

[0105] Now the PV module 1 prepared in this way can be easily suspended between two posts 4 on the two cross beams 5 provided for this purpose using the two holders 6.

[0106] Advantageously, the PV module 1 is first suspended from the two upper brackets 6. This already defines the position of the PV module 1 at the top. Now, another cross member 5 can be inserted through the post 4 at the bottom of each post 4. Now, the first plug-in tab 6.1 of a third bracket 6 can be suspended from the frame 2 of the PV module 1 to be attached, and the second plug-in tab 6.2 of the third bracket 6 can be pushed onto the cross member 5.

[0107] The process is now repeated with the fourth bracket 6 on the other side of the frame 2. If necessary, the brackets 6 can be further secured to the frame 2 using screws 7. The PV module 1 is now sufficiently attached to both posts 4.

[0108] The assembly sequence is not limited to the one described above; it can of course be changed.

[0109] Any number of PV modules 1 can be mounted in the manner described above.

[0110] Advantageously, a single cross member 5 can be used to support two adjacent PV modules 1. This is shown as an example in Figure 15.

[0111] Instead of the combination of sleeve 20 and post 4, a post 4 which is preferably formed in one piece can also be used. If the post 4 is sufficiently stable, it can also be driven directly into the ground. The sleeve 20 is then not required. In this context, a post is understood to be an elongated component fixed vertically in the ground. Once anchored in the ground directly or with the aid of the sleeve 20, the post is free-standing. The support system according to the invention has the advantage that the photovoltaic modules 1 can be fastened thereto in portrait or landscape format. In order to construct a PV system with a defined PV module area, the PV modules 1 are arranged between the posts 4 either in portrait format (see, for example, Figures 8 - 10) or in landscape format (see Figure 17).

[0112] If the PV modules 1 are arranged in portrait format, it is generally sufficient to arrange them in one row (see Figures 8 - 10). If the PV modules 1 are arranged in landscape format, they are generally arranged in two rows. This means that two PV modules are arranged one above the other in landscape format (see Figure 17). With this type of arrangement of the PV modules, the overall height of the PV system with PV modules in portrait format is lower than that of the PV system with PV modules in landscape format.

[0113] In general, a PV system is easier to install when it is relatively low. Therefore, a PV system with single-row PV modules arranged in portrait format is easier to install than one with two rows of PV modules arranged in landscape format.

[0114] Another advantage of a low installation height is that the PV system is exposed to lower wind forces.

[0115] The required linear meters of posts are less for single-row PV modules arranged in landscape format than for single-row PV modules arranged in portrait format.

[0116] If the PV modules 1 are arranged in a single row in portrait format, this has the advantage that a smaller footprint or installation space is required than with a single row arrangement of the PV modules in landscape format (with the same number of PV modules). The preceding description of the embodiments according to the present invention serves only for illustrative purposes. Various changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the invention. For example, the various components of the support system and the PV system shown in Figures 1 to 17 can also be combined with one another in a manner other than that shown in the figures.

[0117] List of reference symbols

[0118] 1 photovoltaic module

[0119] 2 frames / module frames

[0120] 2.1 Mounting hole

[0121] 3 PV cell structure

[0122] 4 posts

[0123] 4.1 Opening

[0124] 46.2 Overhang

[0125] 5 cross members

[0126] 6 Bracket

[0127] 6.1 Plug-in tab

[0128] 6.2 Plug-in tab

[0129] 6.5 Thread / thread insert

[0130] 7 Fasteners

[0131] 14 posts

[0132] 14.1 Opening

[0133] 14.2 Flank

[0134] 16 Bracket

[0135] 16.1 Plug-in tab

[0136] 16.4 Nose

[0137] 16.5 Thread / Thread insert

[0138] 16.6 Nose

[0139] 16.7 Bridge

[0140] 16.8 Bridge

[0141] 20 sleeves

[0142] 21 distribution cabinet

[0143] 26 Bracket

[0144] 26.1 Plug-in tab

[0145] 26.2 Plug-in tab

[0146] 26.3 Plug-in tab

[0147] 26.5 Thread / Thread insert

[0148] 36 Bracket Plug-in tab Plug-in tab

[0149] Bracket Plug-in tab Plug-in tab Thread / threaded insert

[0150] Bracket Plug-in tab Plug-in tab Thread / threaded insert

[0151] Bracket Plug-in tab Plug-in tab Thread / threaded insert

Claims

Patent claims 1. Support system for a photovoltaic module equipped with a frame, - with a first post (4) and a second post (4), - with a first cross member (5) which can be fastened to the first post (4), - with a second cross member (5) which can be fastened to the second post (4), - with a first holder (6), -- which has a first plug-in tab (6.1) for hanging in the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1), and -- which has a second plug-in tab (6.2) for hooking into the first cross member (5), - with a fastening means (7) with which the first holder (6) can be fixed to the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1), - with a second bracket (6) , -- which has a first plug-in tab (6.1) for hanging in the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1), and -- which has a second plug-in tab (6.2) for hooking into the second cross member (5), and - with a further fastening means (7) with which the second holder (5) can be fixed to the frame (2) of the photovoltaic module (1).

2. Support system according to claim 1, in which the posts (4) have openings (4.1) which are designed such that the cross members (5) can be inserted through the posts (4).

3. Support system according to claim 1, in which the posts (4) have openings into which the cross members (5) can be suspended.

4. Support system according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the fastening means (7) are screws or rivets.

5. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the fastening means (7) is a bead in the holder (6) in order to create a positive and / or non-positive connection between the holder (6) and the frame (2).

6. Support system according to one of claims 1 to 5, with a third holder (6) which is identical in construction to the first holder (6) in order to fasten the photovoltaic module (1) to a third cross member (5).

7. Support system according to claim 6, with a fourth holder (6) which is identical in construction to the first holder (6) in order to fasten the photovoltaic module (1) to a fourth cross member (5).

8. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the first plug-in tab (6.1) of the first holder (6) is arranged orthogonally to the second plug-in tab (6.2) of the first holder (6).

9. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 7, in which the first plug-in tab (6.1) of the first holder (6) and the second plug-in tab (6.2) of the first holder (6) are arranged parallel to one another.

10. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 9, in which the first plug-in tab (6.1) has a thread (6.5).

11. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which the second plug-in tab (6.2) has a hole for receiving a screw.

12. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 11, in which the first and / or second cross member (5) are designed as a hollow profile.

13. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the first holder (6) is displaceable on the first cross member (5) and the second holder (6) is displaceable on the second cross member (5).

14. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which the brackets (6) are made of die-cast plastic, die-cast aluminum or steel.

15. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which the brackets (6) are designed as bent sheet metal parts.

16. Carrier system according to one of claims 1 to 15, - in which the brackets (6) each have a third plug-in tab (6.3) for hooking into the cross member (5), and - in which the first plug-in tab (6.1) and the third plug-in tab (6.3) are arranged such that the holder (6) is axially symmetrical to the vertical axis.

17. Photovoltaic system comprising a support system according to one of claims 1 to 16, - which has several photovoltaic modules (1), and - which is constructed using the support system.

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