Device for fastening photovoltaic modules

Abstract

Disclosed is a device (1) for fastening photovoltaic modules, comprising a first profile section (3) and a second profile section (4) cooperating with the first profile section (3), - the first profile section (3) has two so-called support edges (30) that are arranged facing outwards in opposite directions; - the second profile section (4) has two so-called clamping edges (40) that are arranged facing outwards in opposite directions; - the second profile section (4) is housed in the opening of the U of the first profile section (3) and the device comprises an actuation system that mechanically connects the second profile section (4) to the first profile section (3); - the actuation system comprising a single clamping member, and being able, when the clamping member is actuated, to make said second profile section (4) movable in longitudinal translation in the longitudinal direction of the first profile section and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

Description

Device for fixing photovoltaic modules

[0001] The invention relates to a device for fixing photovoltaic modules.

[0002] The invention will be more particularly described with regard to a device fixed to a support structure for solar fields, without however being limited thereto. The device of the invention applies to any structure on which photovoltaic modules are fixed, including roofs.

[0003] There are many support devices for photovoltaic modules on the market, including profiles of various shapes (which are often Omega-shaped) on which the photovoltaic modules rest, and fixing clips are screwed to the profiles by being inserted between two modules and positioned astride to clamp the edges and the top of the two modules. The implementation is often complex, is especially tedious and generates a lot of time due to the need to correctly position and wedge the modules before fixing them and to have to use a multitude of fixing clips to be mounted and bolted. For example, an area of ​​120 m 2which represents 60 modules (2 m by 1 m) requires the installation of nearly 130 staples with their associated bolts, which represents an installation time of approximately six hours for one worker or three hours for two workers. In addition, these current devices do not facilitate maintenance. Currently, for a solar field, changing a module due to a malfunction requires climbing on it to unscrew the fixing staples, this difficult maneuver presents risks of falling for the installer.

[0004] Among the existing devices, we can cite patent application EP2309549, the device of which describes a first profile having a general Omega shape with an upper support core for two modules side by side and a central rib integral with the core projecting upwards and whose lateral faces constitute abutment surfaces for the edges of the modules, and a second profile forming a glazing bead which straddles the rib of the first profile and the upper faces of the modules. However, this fixing requires numerous screws and it is necessary to mount on the modules when it comes to dismantling them, including for a solar field application. Also known in document US2022255494 are pieces or riders in pairs, one of the pieces fitting inside the other and providing a space for the arrangement of a module sandwiched between the two pieces.Clamping the part inside the other part allows the module to be tightened. The parts of each pair have several holes at the bottom into which the operator engages screw-type clamping devices that are screwed vertically and which must also cooperate opposite nut fastening systems positioned in the support structure. Here again, fixing a module requires several pairs of parts, numerous screws, and the operator must take care to correctly position the pairs of parts in relation to the fastening systems of the support structure and to insert the screws each time in the right place and then multiply the screwing operations.

[0005] The invention therefore aims to propose a device for fixing photovoltaic modules which is simple and quick to implement, easy to maintain, while being resistant to the strongest climatic stresses.

[0006] According to the invention, the device for fixing photovoltaic modules is in accordance with claim 1. In particular, according to the invention, the device for fixing photovoltaic modules (intended for simultaneous straddle fixing of at least two first contiguous modules arranged on either side of the device), comprises a first profile (intended to form the supporting structure of the photovoltaic modules) and a second profile cooperating with the first profile (the second profile being intended to be pressed straddle against the upper faces of the modules), and is characterized in that - the first profile (intended to constitute a chevron-type element when fixing the modules in landscape mode or to constitute a purlin-type element when fixing the modules in portrait mode; the first profile is intended to be fixed to the support structure,in particular to a part of the support structure such as a purlin or a rafter) has a generally U-shaped section (with the opening of the U facing away from the ground or the support structure in the mounted position of the device) and comprises a web (intended to be fixed to the support structure), two so-called vertical wings opposite each other, parallel and facing, extending (substantially) perpendicularly from the web, and two so-called support edges, of opposite direction extending perpendicularly from the vertical wings opposite the web (from the free end of the wings) and facing outwards of said first profile (each of the support edges forming a bearing surface for a module arranged on one side of the first profile);- the second profile has a generally U-shaped section (with the opening of the U facing away from the ground or the support structure in the mounted position of the device) and comprises a web,two opposite parallel and facing wings, and two so-called clamping edges, of opposite direction and extending perpendicularly from the wings of said second profile opposite the core (from the free end of the wings) and facing the outside of said second profile (each of the clamping edges being intended to clamp at right angles the edge and the edge of the upper face of a module);- the second profile is housed in the opening of the U of the first profile so that the clamping edges of the second profile are spaced (in the vertical direction) from the support edges of the first profile (and the clamping edges are parallel and facing the support edges in the mounted and clamped position of photovoltaic modules), and the device comprises an actuation system which mechanically connects the second profile to the first profile;- the actuation system comprising a clamping member which is unique, and the actuation system being capable,when the clamping member is actuated, to make said second profile movable in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (to bring the clamping edges closer to or further apart from the support edges both in a vertical plane and in a plane perpendicular to the vertical plane, a plane parallel to the clamping edges). In particular, the single clamping member extends in a longitudinal direction in the length direction of the profiles (the clamping being carried out in the longitudinal direction of the profiles and not in a perpendicular and vertical direction). Without the need for positioning marking and in a single screwing operation on the single actuating member at the end of the first profile, the modules are clamped. Advantageously, the profiles being at least the length of the sides of the modules to be clamped (to be fixed),The actuation system with its single clamping element allows, through both vertical and longitudinal mobility, to clamp the modules along their entire length in a single operation.

[0007] The mobility of the second profile relative to the first profile causes the clamping edges to move closer (when the clamping member is tightened) (or further apart when loosened) towards the support edges. When the modules are arranged on the support edges, the movement of the clamping edges causes them to be positioned in abutment against the upper face of the modules, the tightening of the actuating member allowing the clamping edges to be clamped / pinched against the modules.

[0008] Thus, the device of the invention provides very easy and rapid installation and maintenance with very few parts. Indeed, the installer saves time and simplicity because there are far fewer fixing parts, the modules are simply placed on the support edges of the first profile and the installer only has to tighten the single actuating member to wedge the modules by the clamping edges of the second profile. The installer does not need to look for a placement mark or position himself above each module to fix a multiplicity of straddle clips or a multiplicity of screws on a straddle profile; he only has to place the modules on the support edges of the first profile by bringing them as he wishes directly vertically or sideways then he only has to tighten the single clamping member, arranged in particular at the end of the first profile, to tighten and fix all the modules.In particular, the first and second profiles extend along the entire length of one side of a module, and the actuation system with the single clamping member makes it possible to clamp the second profile against the two adjacent modules which are supported by the first profile, and this along the entire length of the two adjacent modules, thus simultaneously fixing the two modules on either side of the profiles and along their entire length.

[0009] In comparison with the example of the prior art cited in the preamble to this description, a surface of 60 modules (2 m by 1 m) requires only about fifteen minutes of installation by two workers and about twenty fixing screws in total (instead of more than a hundred staples and associated screws), or even, for this same surface, only ten fixing screws are used for a landscape installation of the modules. In addition, the device with its steel profiles is strong and applies a force, not localized as in the prior art by parts which are also made of aluminum, but a clamping force over the entire length of the modules. The device is robust and withstands cyclonic winds, or even winds of 320 km / h and beyond depending on the materials used. The length of the devices can vary; for example, it is around 6 m to accommodate up to three or four photovoltaic modules on each side.Furthermore, the device allows the modules to be arranged in both portrait and landscape mode, with the profiles being able to be arranged in both rafter and purlin fashion.

[0010] In the remainder of the description, "vertical" means the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the profiles. The term "height", the qualifiers "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom" of an element of the device are used in the context of a normal installation of the device on a support structure for a solar field or a roof.

[0011] According to a characteristic and a first embodiment, the second profile has its wings which are flexible and comprises on each of its wings (in particular over the entire length of the profile), symmetrically and at a distance from the clamping edges, a rib projecting towards the outside of said second profile, preferably, each rib having a substantially triangular section. By "flexible" is meant the fact that the wings of the second profile can be brought together when pressure is exerted on them, which corresponds to a so-called constraint position as opposed to a rest position, or return to their rest position when the pressure is released.The ribs serve as stops in cooperation with the interior of the first profile and in the upper opening plane of said first profile (against the edge of the support edges) to constrain the wings of the second profile and bend them inclinedly so that they are brought together. In the constrained position of the wings of the second profile, these are contiguous or substantially contiguous. In this constrained position, from one rafter to the other or from one purlin to the other, that is to say between two consecutive devices of the invention, the distance separating a clamping return of a device from the clamping return of the adjacent device is greater than the width of a photovoltaic module, which allows easy installation of the device, in particular by bringing it directly vertical, in line with the support edges.

[0012] According to a characteristic of the first embodiment, in the so-called constraint position of the wings of the second profile, the clamping edges of the second profile are arranged side by side, being offset in line with the opening of the U of the first profile and no longer facing the support edges.

[0013] According to a characteristic of the first embodiment, the first profile has a spacing of its vertical wings, which is narrowed at the level of the plane of the support edges (at the level of the upper opening plane of said profile), the narrowing being provided by an inwardly converging inclination of the vertical wings at their so-called upper end. In particular, the inclination is of inverse profile and symmetrical with respect to the vertical of the so-called upper part. The ribs abut against the vertical wings of the first profile and follow their profile, the upper end of which is narrowed then widens towards the bottom of the profile, which separates the wings of the second profile when the latter descends into the first profile and brings them together when it rises.

[0014] According to a characteristic and a second embodiment of the device as regards the first and second profiles, the second profile is capable of being manually inclined on one side or the other towards a wing of the first profile so as to offset a clamping edge of one of the wings of the second profile inside the U of the first profile without protruding above the support edge in the immediate vicinity of the first profile.

[0015] According to a characteristic of the second embodiment, the first profile has at least one pair of oblong orifices opposite its wings (each wing comprises at least one oblong orifice opposite an oblong orifice on the other wing), each oblong orifice called vertical oblong orifice having a longitudinal axis of perpendicular direction (i.e. vertical direction) relative to the longitudinal axis of the first profile. The second profile being connected to the first profile, the vertical oblong orifices of the first profile make it possible to tilt inside the U of the first profile, said second profile relative to the first profile by tilting the second profile towards one of the wings of the first profile to clear the space above the support edge of the other wing of the first profile. This clearance is used to bring a module directly vertically onto said support edge.The second profile, being inclined towards the opposite side, causes the clamping edge intended to be associated with the module to be mounted to be offset towards the inside of the opening of the U of the first profile, in particular to be offset in relation to the right of the wing of the first profile, so that the module can be brought vertically to the support edge of the first profile without any hindrance from the second profile.

[0016] According to a characteristic of the second embodiment, the vertical oblong orifices of the first profile are arranged in the second half of the height of the wings, the first half of the wings being the one connected to the core.

[0017] According to an additional characteristic of the second embodiment, the second profile has for each of the wings, an end portion opposite the core, which is inclined relative to the rest of the wing by being divergent towards the outside and which is connected to the clamping edge. Thus, the upper end of the U of the second profile is flared, which helps in the assembly and disassembly of the modules when the operator tilts said second profile towards one of the wings of the first profile and therefore towards one of the modules which would already be mounted. This flaring prevents the second inclined profile from butting against the module already installed.

[0018] According to one feature, the actuation system is such that the clamping member is mechanically coupled to the end of the first profile and is mechanically coupled to the second profile. Several possibilities can be envisaged for mechanical coupling. According to one feature and an exemplary embodiment for mechanically coupling the clamping member to the second profile, the actuation system comprises a connecting shaft (passing through the interior of the second profile) fixed integrally to the wings of the second profile and a connecting piece which connects the connecting shaft to the clamping member (to drive said second profile in mobility).

[0019] According to one characteristic, the second profile comprises at least one pair of oblong holes facing each other on each of its wings (each wing comprises at least one oblong hole facing an oblong hole on the other wing), each oblong hole being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile from a so-called bottom end to an opposite so-called top end, the bottom end of the so-called inclined oblong hole being on the side of the clamping member, and in that the device comprises at least one guide member such as a guide shaft which is integral with the two vertical wings of the first profile while being able to slide through the vertical oblong orifices of said first profile, and which is able to slide in the pair of inclined oblong holes of the second profile (when the clamping member is actuated).Whatever the embodiment of the profiles (first or second embodiment), the inclined oblong holes of the second profile in which the guide axis cooperates participate in properly guiding over the entire length of the device the mobility in vertical translation and in longitudinal translation of the second profile in the first profile for a bringing of the second profile against the modules perfectly parallel to the sides of the modules against which the second profile must be clamped.

[0020] Preferably, over a length of profile, said second profile comprises several facing and spaced pairs of inclined oblong holes (intended to cooperate with several facing pairs of orifices of the first profile for the mobility of the second profile in the first profile).

[0021] According to a characteristic of the first embodiment, the fixing device comprises a locking key which locks the guide member in position in the clamped position of the clamping member (in particular locks the guide member in position in its high position, i.e. when the second profile is housed in the first profile beyond its ribs, the wings of the second profile being in their rest position and the clamping edges being clamped / pinched against the photovoltaic modules).

[0022] According to one characteristic (regardless of the first or second embodiment of the profiles), the clamping member is a screw with a threaded rod which comprises a clamping head and an opposite end, said end being integral with the connecting part of the actuation system and the clamping head is capable of coming to bear in its clamped position against a stop surface integral with a distal end of the first profile.

[0023] According to a characteristic of the device, the clamping member is unique and is arranged at a distal end of the first profile, in particular by cooperating in the clamped position with a stop surface extending in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first profile and at a distal end of the first profile.

[0024] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the aforementioned fixing device, for fixing several photovoltaic modules along two sides of the device (the device having been previously fixed against a support frame / structure, in particular via the fixing of the core of the first profile against the frame), the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - the single clamping member is loosened; - the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support edge, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement; - the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device;- the installer positions himself at the level of the single clamping member arranged at a distal end of the first profile, and tightens the clamping member which translates the second profile in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and which brings the clamping edges towards the support edges; - the installer tightens the clamping member fully which presses the clamping edges at right angles against the photovoltaic modules by pinching.;

[0025] In a single step of actuating the clamping member, the installer fixes two adjacent modules of the device by simultaneously applying the clamping edges of the second profile against the modules along the entire length of said second profile, in particular by even clamping the modules along their entire length when the profile runs the entire length of the modules.

[0026] Of course, to fix aligned modules, it will be necessary to arrange two spaced and parallel devices which will allow the opposite edges of each of the modules to be fixed.

[0027] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the aforementioned fixing device and according to the first embodiment of the profiles, for fixing several photovoltaic modules along two sides of the device, the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps (the device having been previously fixed against a support frame / structure, in particular via the fixing of the core of the first profile against the frame): - the clamping member is loosened so that the second profile housed in the first profile is in a position (called high) in which the clamping edges at a distance from the support edges are offset towards the inside of the second profile and the first profile and offset relative to the vertical (relative to the right) of the so-called inner end of the support edges, providing a completely free space above the support edges;- the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support edge, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement;- the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device;- the installer positions himself at the clamping member, in particular the clamping member being arranged at a distal end of the first profile (and therefore of the device and at the lowest point of the slope of the device if the modules are arranged in portrait mode, the lowest modules being held in a known manner by usual stop means), and tightens the clamping member which translates the second profile causes the clamping edges to be brought back towards the support edges, both by moving the clamping edges apart from each other and by bringing the clamping edges closer (in the vertical direction) towards the support edges;- the installer tightens the clamping member fully, which presses the clamping edges squarely against the photovoltaic modules (both on the edge of the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus locking and fixing the modules).;

[0028] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the aforementioned fixing device and according to the second embodiment of the profiles, for fixing several photovoltaic modules along two sides of the device, the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps (the device having been previously fixed against a frame / support structure, in particular via the fixing of the core of the first profile against the frame): - the clamping member being loosened, the installer manually tilts the second profile on one side of a wing of the first profile so as to offset a clamping edge of one of the wings of the second profile inside the first profile without protruding above the support edge in the immediate vicinity of the first profile, leaving a completely free space above this support edge;- the installer places a photovoltaic module on the support edge, the space above which is free of any clamping edge of the second profile, in particular by being able to place the photovoltaic module directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement;- the installer manually tilts the second profile on the other side, towards the module already installed, which clears the space above the other support edge of the other wing of the first profile and the installer places another photovoltaic module on said other edge support;- the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device each time by tilting the second profile on one side;- the installer puts the second profile back in the upright position relative to the inside of the first profile and positions himself at the clamping member, in particular the clamping member being arranged at a distal end of the first profile (and therefore of the device and at the lowest point of the slope of the device if the modules are arranged in portrait mode, the lowest modules being held in a known manner by usual stop means), then tightens the clamping member which translates the second profile causes the clamping edges to be brought back towards the support edges, bringing the clamping edges towards the support edges in the vertical direction; - the installer tightens the clamping member fully which presses the clamping edges at right angles against the photovoltaic modules (both on the edge of the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus blocking and fixing the modules).;

[0029] The present invention is now described using examples that are purely illustrative and in no way limitative of the scope of the invention, and from the attached illustrations, in which: - is a schematic view in bird's eye perspective of a fixing of several photovoltaic modules on a support structure via fixing devices according to the invention; - represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a fixing device according to a (first) exemplary embodiment, the photovoltaic modules being in the supported position but not yet clamped and therefore not completely fixed. - corresponds to the view of the in the clamped and fixed position of the photovoltaic modules. - represents an exploded perspective view of the first profile and the second profile of the fixing device of the invention. - is a front view of the section of the first profile. - is a front view of the section of the second profile.-illustrates a schematic side view of an exemplary embodiment of the connecting piece and the clamping member coupled to the connecting piece of the fixing device of the invention, the connecting piece being intended to connect the first and second profiles.-is a partial top view of the fixing device of the, showing the connecting piece connecting the first and second profiles and the coupled clamping member.-is a partial view in longitudinal and median section of the fixing device of the at the connecting axis of the connecting piece and optionally showing a locking key in its unlocked position.-is a partial view in longitudinal section of the fixing device of the in correspondence with the but in the locked position of the locking key.-is a front view of the distal end of two spaced devices for mounting at least one photovoltaic module, distal end where the clamping member is located, this view corresponding to an intermediate position of the second profile between the constraint position of the and the rest and clamping position of the. The is also partially in section to precisely see the second profile housed in the first profile.-represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a fixing device of the invention according to another (second) example of embodiment of the profiles, the photovoltaic modules being in the clamped and fixed position; the second profile has also been shown diagrammatically in dotted lines in a tilted position before mounting one of the modules.-corresponds to the schematic view of the fixing device in the rest position when not in use against the modules, at its distal end where the clamping member is located, this view also being partially in section to see the second profile housed in the first profile.-represents an exploded and side view of the first profile and of the second profile according to the second embodiment.-is a front view of the section of the first profile according to the second embodiment.-is a front view of the section of the second profile according to the second embodiment.-is a partial view and in longitudinal section of the fixing device in the presentation phase of a photovoltaic module when the second profile according to the second embodiment of the profiles, is in its inclined position as illustrated in dotted lines on the.-is a partial view in longitudinal section of the fixing device after tightening against the photovoltaic modules when the second profile according to the second embodiment of the profiles is in its tightened position as illustrated in the.-is a partial view in longitudinal and partial section of the fixing device according to the second embodiment of the profiles, in the rest state of the device when not in use and showing different parts, the end part at the level of the tightening member, a part at the level of the cooperation of an oblong vertical orifice of the second profile with an inclined oblong hole of the first profile, and a part at the level of the fixing of the device on a purlin of the support structure.

[0030] The device 1 of the invention illustrated in the figures allows the mounting of photovoltaic modules 2A, 2B, etc. on a support structure S, for example on a support structure for a solar field. The device 1 could also be installed on another support structure such as a frame of an industrial or traditional roof.

[0031] Device 1 is used in the direction of the slope. Device 1 is intended to form a rafter for supporting the photovoltaic modules. Several devices 1 will be spaced the width of the photovoltaic modules and will constitute the support structure of said modules.

[0032] Photovoltaic modules are generally rectangular. They are assembled in "portrait" mode, i.e. their long sides are parallel to the slope of the support structure. Alternatively, they can be arranged in "landscape" mode, their long sides being transverse to the slope of the support structure and parallel to the purlins of the frame. The profiles described below, constituting device 1, will be arranged in the direction of the greatest length of the photovoltaic modules.

[0033] The device 1 extends longitudinally and has two longitudinal sides 10 and 11 at each of which are supported and fixed a module or several modules then abutted in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] The device 1 is intended to fix at least two modules 2A and 2B at the same time, which are respectively arranged on its two sides 10 and 11. Between two spaced fixing devices 1, at least one photovoltaic module 2A is mounted (figures 1 and 11). It shows a plurality of modules in portrait mode including two consecutive modules 2A and 2C as well as 2B and 2D according to the length of the fixing devices 1 (along the slope) and on each of the sides 10 and 11.

[0035] The device 1 has a length which can be adapted by cutting one of its ends, namely cutting the end of its two profiles.

[0036] The device 1 has a length that can for example reach 6 m, in order to arrange and fix four 1.5 m long modules or three 2 m modules along the slope, and this on each side of the device. The device 1 extends and clamps the photovoltaic modules continuously along their entire length. With a single device 1, the operator can simultaneously clamp at least two adjacent modules (on each side of the device) over the entire length of the modules, the clamping profile (hereinafter called second profile 4) extending over at least the entire length of the adjacent modules.

[0037] The device 1 () comprises a first profile 3, a second profile 4 and a first mechanical connection system 5A () between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3 to maneuver the second profile 4 (in the first profile 3) simultaneously in vertical translation and in horizontal translation, and preferably a second mechanical connection system 5B between the second profile 4 and the first profile 3 to guide the movement of the second profile 4 due to its length (figures 2, 9, 10, 12 and 17 to 19). The first connection system 5A, hereinafter referred to as the “actuating system”, comprises a clamping actuating member 6 (figures 9 to 11) capable of making the second profile 4 movable relative to the first profile 3. The second connection system 5B, hereinafter referred to as the “guiding system”, comprises at least one guiding member 5' facilitating the mobility (guiding) of the second profile 4 relative to the first profile 3.

[0038] The second profile 4 is housed in the first profile 3 and has a portion which protrudes from the first profile. The second profile 4 is capable of being movable relative to the first profile 3 in the longitudinal direction of the profile and concomitantly in vertical translation, that is to say in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3. The second profile 4 is capable of adopting a so-called high position and a so-called low position.

[0039] Furthermore, the first profile 3 comprises support edges 30 on which the modules are intended to rest by their so-called lower face 20, and the second profile 4 comprises clamping edges 40 which are intended to press against and clamp the modules at the level of their so-called upper face 21 and their edge 22. In particular, the second profile 4 with its clamping edges clamps and blocks the modules 2A and 2B at right angles (against the frame 23 of the modules).

[0040] To arrange the modules on the support edges 30 of the first profile before clamping the second profile 4, it is necessary to release for each side of the device (for two adjacent modules 2A and 2B) simultaneously or consecutively the clamping edges 40 of the second profile 4 relative to the support edges 30 of the first profile. Two embodiments are envisaged and described below for the first and second profiles 3 and 4. The elements in common have the same references. Figures 2 to 11 illustrate a first embodiment of the profiles 3 and 4. Figures 12 to 19 illustrate a second embodiment of the profiles 3 and 4.

[0041] The first embodiment of the first and second profiles 3 and 4 is now described. Advantageously, the second profile 3 is flexible at its wings. The flexibility and mobility of the second profile 3 allow the clamping edges 40 to adopt: - a so-called retracted position () so that they are arranged in a plane parallel to the support edges 30 and being offset towards the inside of the second profile 4 and offset relative to the vertical of said support edges 30, which allows the installer to place the modules 2A and 2B on the support edges 30 without worrying about the first profile which is therefore in no way a hindrance, the modules being able to be brought in any direction and in particular being brought in a vertical direction, from top to bottom.The retracted position of the clamping edges 40 corresponds to the upper position of the second profile 4; - a so-called clamping position () so that they are arranged parallel to the support edges 40 and at a distance and opposite each other, to clamp the upper face of the modules. The clamping position of the clamping edges 40 corresponds to the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0042] More particularly, the first profile 3 () has a general U-shape. In the installed position on the support structure, the first profile has the opening of the U facing upwards (away from the support structure or away from the ground). The first profile 3 has a core 31, two opposite, parallel and facing vertical wings 32 and 33, and the two support edges 30. The first profile 3 (U-shaped) is open away from the core 31. The two support edges 30 are secured to the upper free end of the two respective vertical wings 32 and 33, away from the core 31 and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). Each support edge 30 has a surface perpendicular to the associated wing (therefore parallel to the core 31).Preferably, each support edge 30 has a return 30' folded perpendicularly towards the core 31 to increase the rigidity of the support edge 30 intended to carry the modules (optional and in no way limiting). The first profile 3 has in particular a thickness between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm depending on the dimensional and climatic constraints. The first profile 3 is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0043] Each vertical wing 32 and 33 preferably comprises at least one orifice 34, preferably two orifices spaced along the length depending on the length of the profile, to fix there by bolting an axis 5' forming the guide member of the guide system 5B as will be seen later, which crosses the internal width of the first profile 3 and the internal width of the second profile 4.

[0044] In addition, the width of the U of the first profile 3 (distance separating the vertical flanges 32 and 33) is narrowed at the upper end 35. The narrowed end 35 is obtained by a converging inclination of the vertical flanges 32 and 33 towards each other (relative to the general plane of the flanges) (from a proximal part) to the plane of the support edges 30. The width of the first profile 3 at the plane of the support edges 30 is less than the width of the web 31.

[0045] The second profile 4 () has a general U-shape. It comprises a core 41 and two wings 42 and 43 secured to the core 41 and spaced apart, parallel and facing each other, as well as the two clamping edges 40 at the free end of the two respective wings, opposite the core 41, and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). Each of the two wings 42 and 43 is ribbed with a longitudinal rib 44 projecting towards the outside of the profile. The rib 44 is arranged at a distance from the clamping edge 40, preferably substantially halfway between the core 41 and the clamping edge 40. Preferably, the rib 44 is pointed; it has a substantially triangular section. The rib 44 has a lateral end surface 45 forming a stop. The inclination of the profile of the rib 44 of the second profile can correspond substantially to the inverse inclination (in vertical symmetry) of the inclined end 35 of the first profile.Furthermore, the distance (height) separating the clamping edges 40 from the rib 44 is adapted to the thickness of a photovoltaic module concerned so that the clamping edges 40 can come into contact with the modules, in the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0046] The second profile 4 has its wings 42 and 43 which are flexible. The wings 42 and 43 have elasticity. They are flexible due to the thickness of their constituent material. The wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 have a thickness advantageously between 0.5 mm and 0.8 mm. The second profile 4 is metallic; it is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0047] The abutment surfaces 45 of the two ribs 44 of the second profile cooperate with the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile between the narrowed end 35 of the vertical wings 32 and 33 and the proximal part of the vertical wings of greater width. The abutment of the ribs 44 between two surfaces that are the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile which are separated by a width smaller (for the narrowed end of the first profile) or larger (for the proximal part of the first profile) than that separating the ribs 44, causes the ribs 44 to be compressed or not. Thus, in the so-called high position of the second profile 4, when the ribs 44 are in abutment against the vertical wings 32 and 33 at the narrowed end 35 and the plane of the support edges 30 (), the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile are then constrained and are brought closer to each other so as to put the clamping edges 40 in an offset position.The offset position of the clamping edges 40 of the second profile allows the receiving space above the support edges 30 of the first profile to be left free to bring and arrange the photovoltaic modules on said support edges without any barrier. When the second profile 4 is translated to be introduced further inwards and downwards (towards the core 31) of the first profile 3, the ribs 44, still in abutment against the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the narrowed end 35, follow by guidance the inclined profile which widens towards the bottom of said vertical wings, which gradually generates less compression on the ribs () and consequently a relaxation of the wings 42 and 43 which move away from each other.Once the ribs 44 of the second profile are positioned beyond the narrowed end 35 of the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile (), they are no longer constrained, which positions the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile in their rest position and the clamping edges 40 in their clamping position.

[0048] When the photovoltaic modules have to be removed (for example for maintenance), the second profile 4 is made mobile by being raised (from its low position to its high position) relative to the inside of the first profile 3, the profile of the upper end 35 being narrowed, this exerts pressure against the ribs 44 which causes the wings 42 and 43 to fold by tilting them against each other, then releasing the clamping edges 40 towards the opposite of the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B; the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B can then be extracted directly vertically without adjacent modules being able to interfere.

[0049] Regardless of the first embodiment or the second embodiment of the first and second profiles 3 and 4, the mobility of the second profile 4, vertically from the high position to the low position and vice versa, is made possible via the actuation system 5A and the clamping actuation member 6 (figures 7 and 8). The translational movements of the second profile 4 are also correctly carried out thanks to the guide system 5B. The clamping actuation member 6 is unique and is arranged at a distal end 36 of the first profile 3, being in its fully clamped position in abutment against a stop surface 7 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the first profile 3 and closing the distal end 36 of said first profile. The first profile 3 being, by its manufacture, open at its distal end 36, a closing part is attached fixed against said distal end 36 and constitutes the stop surface 7.Preferably, this closing part is part of the actuation system 5A. Preferably, this closing part 7 is removably attached against the distal end 36 of the first profile 3; the part 7 (and) is for example U-shaped to cover the distal end 36 and the wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 and is fixed by a bolted through axis 71 passing through through holes 70 arranged in the upper part for example and in a plane distinct from the plane containing the clamping member 6.

[0050] The actuation system 5A (and) comprises a connecting shaft 50 passing through the width of the second profile 4, being fixedly coupled thereto. The connecting shaft 50 is fixedly fixed to the second profile 4 through opposite orifices 42' and 43' of the respective wings 42 and 43. The connecting shaft 50 is, for example, a smooth rod threaded at its ends. The fixing is carried out, for example, by a keying system. The actuation system 5A is fixed in the immediate vicinity of a distal end of the second profile 4.

[0051] In addition, for the guide system 5B (Figures 1, 4 and 9 to 11, as well as Figures 12, 17 to 19), each of the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 has at least one oblong hole 46 opposite the oblong hole of the other wing. The oblong holes 46 accommodate the guide member 5' which is in the form of a guide pin. The guide pin 5' passes through the oblong holes 46 and projects beyond the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 and is fixed by its two ends to the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3. For the fixing of the guide pin 5', the first profile 3 has a hole 34 in each vertical wing 32 and 33 so that the ends of the guide pin 5' pass through these holes 34 and are bolted. The oblong shape of the holes 46 of the second profile 4 allows the mobility of the guide axis 5' along the holes and therefore the mobility of the second profile 4.The oblong holes 46 of the second profile 4 have an oblique direction relative to the vertical direction of the wings (or relative to the longitudinal direction). The obliqueness is such that the lowest point is directed towards the side where the clamping actuating member 6 is located. The oblong holes 46 in an oblique direction are called inclined oblong holes. The length of the oblong holes 46 of the second profile 4 is adapted to the vertical displacement stroke of the second profile 4 from its high position to its low position in order to clamp the photovoltaic modules. The spacing position of the oblong holes 46 is independent of the position and length of the photovoltaic modules and depends on the relative rigidity of the profiles 3 and 4. It will in particular be approximately one meter. Several oblong holes 46 are therefore provided with, for each pair of facing oblong holes, a guide axis 5'.Each pair of inclined oblong holes 46 of the second profile 4 is opposite a pair of vertical oblong orifices 34 of the first profile 3 and cooperates with a guide axis 5'. As for the actuation system 5A, it further comprises a connecting piece 51 which connects the connecting axis 50 to the clamping member 6 and which is arranged inside the first profile 3 and inside the second profile 4. This connecting piece 51 is for example a U-shaped plate which has a web 52 and two wings 53; the wings 53 support the connecting axis 50 via through bores 54 and the web 52 is integral (in a stationary manner) with an end 60 of the clamping member 6, opposite the distal end 36 of the first profile 3.

[0052] The clamping member 6 is in particular a screw with a threaded rod, having the end 60 and an opposite clamping head 61. A non-limiting example is given below as to the mechanical coupling of the clamping member 6 with the end of the first profile 3 on the one hand, and with the second profile 4 on the other hand. The end 60 passes through the web 52 of the connecting piece 51. A nut 62 is screwed onto the end 60 of the threaded rod 6 and is welded to the web 52 of the connecting piece 51. The rod of the clamping member or screw 6 passes through the stop surface 7. The clamping head 61 of the clamping member 6 is outside the first profile 3 to be accessible. In addition, the rod 6 comprises a lock nut 63 welded to the rod and arranged on the other side of the stop surface 7, inside the first profile 3. The lock nut 63 is opposite the clamping head with respect to the stop surface 7.In addition, a clearance is provided between the lock nut 63 and the stop surface 7 so as to allow pivoting in a vertical plane of the threaded rod 6 and the connecting piece 51 during the vertical translation of the second profile 4. The clamping head 61 is capable of being tightened or loosened, which moves the rod 6 towards the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 or towards the opposite, and drives, following and in translation in the longitudinal direction of the first profile, the connecting piece 51 and therefore the connecting axis 50 connected to the second profile 4. In addition, the guide axis 5' or each of the guide axes 5' if there are several (depending on the length of the profiles) slides in the or each of the pairs of oblong holes 46 of the second profile which causes a perfect movement of the second profile 4 both in longitudinal translation and in vertical translation.Thus, in the fully loosened position of the clamping member 6, the guide axis 5' is located at the bottom of the oblong holes 46 (), the second profile 4 for the first embodiment having its wings 42 and 43 as well as its clamping edges 40 in the close position (), leaving the space free above the support edges 30. In the fully tightened position of the clamping member 6, the head 61 of the clamping member abutting against the stop surface 7, the guide axis 5' is located towards the top of the oblong holes 46 (), the second profile 4 having its wings 42 and 43 in the rest position or completely spread apart () as well as its clamping edges 40 which are then in abutment against the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B by pinching them.

[0053] In a particular embodiment with reference to figures 8 and 9, the device 1 preferably comprises a locking key 8 which cooperates with a guide axis 5' to lock it in position (when it is in the high position in the oblong holes 46) when the clamping member 6 is completely tightened and the clamping edges 40 are therefore in the position for clamping the photovoltaic modules, thus preventing untimely movement of the guide axis 5' and loosening of the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B, for example in the event of strong or even cyclonic wind which can produce vibrations in the support structure of the photovoltaic modules.The locking key 8 is placed inside the second profile 4 and is fixed and pivotally articulated around an axis 80 located towards the core 31 of the second profile 4, while encompassing the guide member or axis 5' to be driven at the same time as the passage from the low position to the high position of the second profile and vice versa. The axis 80 of the locking key 8 is for example fixed by passing through holes 47 () arranged in the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile, and by coming into abutment against the inner sides of the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3 below the guide axis 5'.

[0054] The implementation of the device 1 is as follows. At least two first profiles 3 are fixed, being spaced apart by the width of a photovoltaic module such as 2A (), to the support structure S, in particular via the fixing of the core 31 of said first profile. The clamping member 6 is loosened so that the second profile 4 housed in the first profile 3 is in its upper position; the clamping edges 40 are then offset towards the inside of the second profile 4 and of the first profile 3 and offset relative to the vertical (relative to the right) of the so-called inner end of the support edges 30, providing a completely free space above the support edges 30 (). The installer then places at least one photovoltaic module 2A, 2B on each support edge 30, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction using an up-and-down movement. The installer installs several photovoltaic modules, 2A, 2C, etc., along the first profile 3. Finally, the installer positions himself at the level of the clamping member 6, at the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 and tightens the clamping member 6 to translate the second profile 4; the ribs 44 of the second profile 4 which abut against the vertical wings 32 and 33 of the first profile 3, are guided as the translation progresses by the profile of the narrowed end 35 of the first profile (which flares downwards). By following the profile of the end 35 which flares downwards, the ribs 44 are less and less constrained and the wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 which were brought together against each other gradually move apart () while bringing the clamping edges 40 towards the support edges 30.The installer fully presses the clamping member 6, which presses () the clamping edges 40 at right angles against the photovoltaic modules, both on the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus locking and fixing the modules.

[0055] The second embodiment of the first and second profiles 3 and is now described.

[0056] Advantageously, the second profile 4 is designed to be pivotally movable to lean to one side or the other relative to the first profile 3 () and to be movable in line with and inside the first profile. The second profile 4 thus adopts:- a so-called retracted position for successively each of the clamping edges 40 (dotted diagram of the, and position of the), the second profile 4 has been inclined on one side towards a wing of the first profile 3 so that one of its clamping edges 40 is offset towards the inside of the second profile 4 and offset relative to the vertical of the support edge 30 located just below, which allows the installer to place the first module 2A on the support edge 30 without worrying about the second profile 4 which is therefore in no way a hindrance, the module being able to be brought in any direction and in particular by being brought in a vertical direction, from top to bottom.The retracted position of the clamping flanges 40 corresponds to the upper position of the second profile 4. After tilting one side of the second profile 4 to install the first module 2A, said second profile 4 is tilted to the other side to provide free space in line with the opposite support flange 30 of the first profile 3 and install the second module 2B, then the second profile 4 can be returned to its rest position (); - a so-called clamping position (figures 12 and 19) once the two modules 2A and 2B are installed so that the clamping flanges 30 are arranged parallel to the support flanges 40 and at a distance and opposite each other, and clamp the upper face of the modules. The clamping position of the clamping flanges 40 corresponds to the lower position of the second profile 4.

[0057] More particularly, the first profile 3 () has a general U-shape. In the installed position on the support structure, the first profile has the opening of the U facing upwards (away from the support structure or away from the ground). The first profile 3 has a web 31, two vertical wings 32 and 33 opposite, parallel and facing each other, and the two support edges 30. The first profile 3 is for example fixed to the support structure S via brackets E (figures 12 and 19) made integral by a bolting system S' to the wings 32 and 33 in the immediate vicinity of the web 31, and preferably via an axis 3' transverse to the longitudinal direction of the profile and passing through the wings via fixing holes 3'' (). The first profile 3 (U-shaped) is open away from the web 31.The two support edges 30 are integral with the upper free end of the two respective vertical wings 32 and 33, opposite the core 31 and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). Each support edge 30 has a surface perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the associated wing (therefore parallel to the core 31). Preferably, each support edge 30 has a return 30' folded perpendicularly towards the core 31 to increase the rigidity of the support edge 30 intended to carry the modules. In the example shown (optional and in no way limiting), the first profile 3 further comprises, following the return 30', an additional U-shaped profile 30'' of low height serving as a gutter for rainwater. The first profile 3 has in particular a thickness between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm depending on the dimensional and climatic constraints. The first profile 3 is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0058] Each vertical wing 32 and 33 preferably comprises at least one orifice 34, preferably two orifices spaced along the length depending on the length of the profile, for fixing thereto by bolting an axis 5' forming the guide member of the guide system 5B, which crosses the internal width of the first profile 3 and the internal width of the second profile 4. Advantageously, the orifices 34 () are oblong and vertical, having a longitudinal axis of perpendicular direction (i.e. vertical direction) relative to the longitudinal axis of said first profile 3. The vertical oblong orifices 34 are arranged in the second half of the height of the wings 32 and 33, the first half of the wings being that connected to the core 30. The vertical oblong orifices 34 are arranged below the chutes 30''.

[0059] In addition, the support edges 30 are preferably substantially perpendicular to the vertical wings 32 and 33 while being slightly inclined downwards (towards the plane containing the core 31), which facilitates the runoff of rainwater to the gutter 30''.

[0060] The second profile 4 (figures 12 and 16) has a general U-shape. It comprises a core 41 and two wings 42 and 43 integral with the core 41 and spaced apart, parallel and facing each other, as well as the two clamping edges 40 at the free end of the two respective wings, opposite the core 41, and are in opposite directions to each other (directed towards the outside of the profile). The wings 42 and 43 of the second profile 4 have a thickness advantageously between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm. The second profile 4 is metallic; it is preferably made of galvanized steel.

[0061] The second profile has for each of the wings 42 and 43, an end portion 44', 45' opposite the core 41 which is inclined relative to the rest of the wing by being divergent towards the outside and which is connected to the clamping edge 40. Thus, the upper end of the U of the second profile 4 is flared, which helps in the assembly and disassembly of the modules when the operator tilts said second profile towards one of the wings of the first profile and therefore towards one of the modules which would already be mounted. This flaring prevents the second inclined profile 4 from butting against the already installed module, as shown with the second profile in its inclined position in dotted lines.By tilting the second profile 4 to one side, the clamping edge 40 on the opposite side is found towards the inside of the first profile U 3 and offset inwards relative to the vertical of the wing 32 of said first profile 3, leaving free the reception space above the support edge 30 of the first profile 3, associated with said wing 32, which makes it possible to bring the first photovoltaic module 2A vertically and to arrange it on said support edge 30 without any barrier. Once the first module is in place, the operator tilts the second profile 4 to the other side to leave free the reception space above the support edge 30 associated with the other wing 33, which makes it possible to bring the second module 2B vertically onto said support edge.

[0062] When the photovoltaic modules need to be removed (for example for maintenance), the second profile 4 is made mobile by being raised (from its low position to its high position) relative to the inside of the first profile 3. Then the operator tilts the second profile 4 on one side to remove one of the modules, being able to extract it directly vertically, then tilts the second profile on the other side to also extract the second module vertically.

[0063] As for the first embodiment of the profiles, in the second embodiment of the profiles, the guide axis 5' or each of the guide axes 5' if there are several (depending on the length of the profiles) slides in the or each of the pairs of inclined oblong holes 46 of the second profile which causes a perfect movement of the second profile 4 both in longitudinal translation and in vertical translation. Thus, in the fully loosened position of the clamping member 6 and in the inclined position of the second profile 4, the guide axis 5' is located at the bottom of the oblong holes 46 (); the free space above the support edges 30 of the first profile 3 is cleared to receive on one side a first module.In the fully clamped position of the clamping member 6, the head 61 of the clamping member abutting against the abutment surface 7, the guide axis 5' is located towards the top of the inclined oblong holes 46 (); the second profile 4 has its clamping edges 40 which then abut against the photovoltaic modules 2A and 2B by pinching them.

[0064] Figures 17 to 19 show schematically another example of mechanical coupling of the clamping member 6 with the second profile 4, than the example of the.

[0065] The implementation of the device 1 is as follows for the second embodiment of the profiles. At least two first profiles 3 are fixed by being spaced apart by the width of a photovoltaic module such as 2A, to the support structure S, in particular via the fixing of the core 31 of said first profile. The clamping member 6 is loosened so that the second profile 4 housed in the first profile 3 is in its rest position of the. The operator manually pivots the second profile 4 on one side of a wing of the first profile 3 as shown diagrammatically in dotted lines on the and the second profile 4 is in its low position as illustrated on the.The inclination of the second profile 4 towards one of the wings of the first profile, for example the wing 33, makes it possible to move the second profile away from the opposite wing 32 of the first profile and to bring the associated clamping edge 40 of the second profile towards the inside of the U of the second profile (by shifting it towards the inside of the U relative to the right of the wing 32 of the first profile) to provide a completely free space above the associated support edge 30 of the first profile. The installer then places the photovoltaic module 2A on the support edge 30, in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction with an up-and-down movement. Then the installer manually pivots the second profile 4 to the other side to in turn clear the space above the other support edge 30 of the first profile. The installer then places several photovoltaic modules, 2A, 2C, etc., along the first profile 3.Finally, the installer positions himself at the level of the clamping member 6 (as for the first embodiment of the profiles), at the distal end 36 of the first profile 3 and tightens the clamping member 6 to translate the second profile 4 downwards both vertically and longitudinally, which brings the clamping edges 40 closer to the modules 2A, 2B, etc. The installer tightens the clamping member 6 fully, which presses by pinching (figures 12 and 18) the clamping edges 40 at right angles against the photovoltaic modules, both on the upper face of the modules and against their edge; thus blocking and fixing the modules.

Claims

Device (1) for fixing photovoltaic modules, comprising a first profile (3) and a second profile (4) cooperating with the first profile (3), - the first profile (3) having a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (31), two so-called vertical wings (32, 33) opposite each other, parallel and facing, extending perpendicularly from the core, and two so-called support edges (30) of opposite direction extending perpendicularly from the vertical wings (32, 33) opposite the core (31) and facing outwards; - the second profile (4) having a generally U-shaped section and comprises a core (41), two opposite wings (42, 43) opposite each other, parallel and facing, and two so-called clamping edges (40) of opposite direction and extending perpendicularly from the wings (42, 43) of said second profile opposite the core (41) and facing outwards;- the second profile (4) being housed in the opening of the U of the first profile (3) so that the clamping edges (40) of the second profile are spaced from the support edges (30) of the first profile, and the device comprises an actuation system (5A) which mechanically connects the second profile (4) to the first profile (3);- the actuation system (5A) comprising a clamping member (6), characterized in that the clamping member (6) is unique and arranged at a distal end (36) of the first profile (3), and the actuation system (5A) is capable, when the clamping member (6) is actuated, of making said second profile (4) movable in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in so-called vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.; Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second profile (4) has its wings (42, 43) which are flexible and comprises on each of its wings, symmetrically and at a distance from the clamping edges, a rib (44) projecting towards the outside of said second profile, preferably, each rib (44) having a substantially triangular section. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, in the so-called constraint position of the wings (42, 43) of the second profile (4), the clamping edges (40) of the second profile are arranged side by side, being offset in line with the opening of the U of the first profile and no longer facing the support edges (30). Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the first profile (3) has a spacing of its vertical wings (32, 33), which is narrowed at the level of the plane of the support edges (30), the narrowing being provided by a converging inward inclination of the vertical wings at their so-called upper end (35). Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the second profile (4) is capable of being manually inclined from one side or the other towards a wing (32, 33) of the first profile (3) so as to offset a clamping edge (40) of one of the wings of the second profile inside the U of the first profile (3) without protruding above the support edge (30) in the immediate vicinity of the first profile (3). Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first profile (3) has at least one pair of oblong orifices (34) opposite its wings (32, 33), each oblong orifice called vertical oblong orifice (34) having a longitudinal axis of direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first profile. Device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the second profile (4) has for each of the wings, an end portion (44', 45') opposite the core (41), which is inclined relative to the rest of the wing while being divergent towards the outside and which is connected to the clamping rim (40). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the second profile (4) comprises at least one pair of oblong holes (46) facing each other on each of its wings (42, 43), each oblong hole (46) being inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the second profile from a so-called lower end to an opposite so-called upper end, the lower end of the oblong hole (46) being on the side of the clamping member (6), and in that the device comprises at least one guide member (5') such as a guide axis which is integral with the two vertical wings (32, 33) of the first profile (3) and which is capable of sliding in the pair of oblong holes (46) of the second profile. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises a locking key (8) which locks the guide member (5') in position in the clamped position of the clamping member (6). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation system (5A) comprises a connecting shaft (50) fixed integrally to the wings (42, 43) of the second profile and a connecting piece (51) which connects the connecting shaft (50) to the clamping member (6). Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the clamping member (6) is a screw with a threaded rod which comprises a clamping head (61) and an opposite end (60), said end (60) being integral with the connecting part (51) of the actuation system (5A) and the clamping head (61) being able to come to bear in its clamped position against a stop surface (7) integral with the distal end (36) of the first profile (3). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the clamping member (6) cooperates in the clamped position with a stop surface (7) extending in a plane transverse to the longitudinal direction of the first profile and at a distal end of the first profile. Method for implementing the device according to any one of the preceding claims for fixing several photovoltaic modules (2A, 2C; 2B, 2D) along two sides (10, 11) of the device, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - the single clamping member (6) is loosened; - the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support edge (30), in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement; - the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device;- the installer positions himself at the level of the clamping member (6) arranged at a distal end (36) of the first profile, and tightens the clamping member (6) which translates the second profile (4) in longitudinal translation along the longitudinal direction of the first profile and concomitantly in vertical translation, in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and which brings the clamping edges (40) towards the support edges (30); - the installer tightens the clamping member (6) fully which presses by pinching the clamping edges (40) at right angles against the photovoltaic modules.; Method for implementing the device according to the preceding claim and according to claims 2 to 4 of the device, characterized in that:- the single clamping member (6) being loosened, the second profile (4) housed in the first profile (3) is in a position in which the clamping flanges (40) at a distance from the support flanges (30) are offset towards the inside of the second profile and the first profile and offset relative to the vertical of the so-called inner end of the support flanges, providing a completely free space above the support flanges;- the installer places at least one photovoltaic module on each support flange (30), in particular by being able to place it directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement;- the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device;- the installer tightens the clamping member (6) which translates the second profile (4) and brings the clamping edges (40) towards the support edges (30), both by moving the clamping edges away from each other and by bringing them closer towards the support edges; - the installer tightens the clamping member (6) fully which presses the clamping edges (40) at right angles against the photovoltaic modules by pinching.; Method for implementing the device according to claim 13 and according to claims 5 to 7 of the device, characterized in that: - the single clamping member (6) being loosened, the installer manually tilts the second profile (4) on one side of a wing of the first profile (3) so as to shift a clamping edge (40) of one of the wings of the second profile inside the first profile (3) without protruding above the support edge (30) in the immediate vicinity of the first profile (3), providing a completely free space above this support edge; - the installer places a photovoltaic module on the support edge (30) the space above which is free of any clamping edge of the second profile, in particular by being able to place the photovoltaic module directly in a vertical direction by an up-and-down movement;- the installer manually tilts the second profile (4) to the other side, towards the already installed module, which clears the space above the other support edge (30) of the other wing of the first profile and the installer places another photovoltaic module on said other edge support; - the installer can place several photovoltaic modules along the device each time by tilting the second profile (4) to one side; - the installer puts the second profile (4) back in an upright position relative to the inside of the first profile (3) and positions himself at the clamping member (6), in particular the clamping member being arranged at a distal end (36) of the first profile, then tightens the clamping member (6) which translates the second profile (4) and brings the clamping edges (40) back towards the support edges (30);- the installer tightens the clamping member (6) fully, which clamps the clamping edges (40) at right angles against the photovoltaic modules.;

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