DE102023101313A1 - Framework for supporting photovoltaic modules and collecting rainwater - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules (M) and for collecting and draining rainwater (82), which makes it possible to avoid sealing ground surfaces (70), which also counteracts soil erosion and which, through targeted irrigation, promotes the growth, prosperity and yield of plants grown on the ground surface (70). The invention further relates to a photovoltaic system (1) which is installed using the framework mentioned. In addition, the invention relates to methods for collecting and draining water, for irrigating a ground surface (70), for storing water and for irrigation, and to the use of a framework for a photovoltaic system (1) as a device for collecting and draining rainwater or for irrigating a ground surface (70). The invention further relates to the use of a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules (M) as a device for collecting and draining rainwater (82).

Description

Technical area

The present invention relates to a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules and for collecting and draining rainwater. The invention further relates to a photovoltaic system for collecting and draining rainwater. In addition, the invention relates to methods for collecting and draining water, for sprinkling a ground surface, for storing water and for irrigation, and to the use of a framework for a photovoltaic system as a device for collecting and draining rainwater or for sprinkling a ground surface. The invention further relates to the use of a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules as a device for collecting and draining rainwater.

Technical background

Open spaces, including fields, are increasingly being used for the installation and operation of photovoltaic systems. The great advantage of using solar radiation as a renewable energy source to provide environmentally friendly electrical energy is often associated with the disadvantage of sealing large areas, which are then no longer suitable for agricultural use or as a natural habitat for most plant species, since the soil beneath the photovoltaic modules remains essentially dry even when it rains.

On the other hand, there is a risk of soil erosion due to drying out and/or washing away of the soil - particularly in light of climate change, which is leading to increasingly severe weather extremes such as very long periods of heat and drought on the one hand and sudden heavy rainfall on the other. This can also severely impair the usability of areas of land that are exposed to the weather.

In addition, the growth, prosperity or fruiting of many plant species is adversely affected if the plants are exposed to too much sunlight, too much rain or too heavy rain. In agricultural cultivation, for example, certain types of plants (such as strawberries) are often protected from the weather by foil in order to increase yields. Too much irrigation can, for example, lead to fungal infections of the plants and fruit in many fruit trees or bushes. This often leads to the use of fungicides, which in turn damage the environment and whose residues are also unsuitable for consumption.

Finally, another prerequisite for productive cultivation is the targeted irrigation of the plants, whereby both the location of the irrigation and the intensity of the irrigation should be specifically controlled.

There is therefore a need for a system or a device that can eliminate or reduce all or at least some of the disadvantages and problems described above. In particular, there is a need for a photovoltaic system or a device for installing photovoltaic modules that avoids sealing of soil surfaces, which also, at least in embodiments, counteracts soil erosion and which, at least in embodiments, promotes the growth, prosperity and yield of plants grown on a soil surface, in particular through targeted irrigation.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device for installing photovoltaic modules (a framework) and a photovoltaic system by means of which sealing of ground surfaces can be avoided, which also, at least in embodiments, counteracts soil erosion and which, at least in embodiments, is conducive to the growth, prosperity and yield of plants grown on a ground surface, in particular through targeted irrigation.

Disclosure of the invention

The invention is defined by the appended claims. Disclosures which fall outside the scope of the claims are intended for illustrative and comparative purposes only.

A first aspect of the invention relates to a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules and for collecting and draining rainwater. The framework comprises a plurality of module support profiles and a mounting device for supporting the module support profiles. The plurality of module support profiles comprises a first outer module support profile, a second outer module support profile and one or more inner module support profiles. The inner module support profiles are arranged between the first outer module support profile and the second outer module support profile. Each of the inner module support profiles is a hollow profile or a slotted hollow profile which has a first profile area and a second profile area which corresponds to the first profile area opposite. For each of the inner module support profiles, the first profile area has a plurality of inlet openings and is suitable for supporting edges or edge areas of photovoltaic modules. For each of the inner module support profiles, the second profile area has at least one outlet opening, and/or the respective module support profile has an end opening at one or both of its ends. The photovoltaic modules can be mounted on the framework in such a way that at least some of the inlet openings are not covered or are only partially covered by photovoltaic modules.

If a framework according to the first aspect is used to set up a photovoltaic system (see the second aspect), the water falling on the photovoltaic modules when it rains will collect on the surfaces of the photovoltaic modules and then run down the module surfaces. Rainwater then gets into the gaps between the photovoltaic modules. The module profiles now run in the area of these gaps, and the water can then flow into their inlet openings and is then passed on inside the module support profiles until it is discharged again from the module support profiles at one of the respective (one or more) outlet openings and/or one of the respective end openings. Depending on the arrangement and/or shape of these outlet openings, the water can be discharged again from the module support profiles at specific points on the framework, whereby the maximum flow (flow or volume per unit of time) can also be specified for each of the outlet openings depending on the size and/or shape of the outlet openings.

The term “multiplicity” is to be understood here as a number of at least two, i.e. the framework according to the first aspect has two or more module support profiles.

The term ‘supporting profile’ is also to be understood as an elongated support having a cross-section as defined in the first aspect.

It is clear that the exact arrangement of the module support profiles depends on the shape and dimensions of the photovoltaic modules for which the framework is intended.

A "slotted hollow profile" is understood here to mean a hollow profile (e.g. a beam, a support, etc.) with an approximately C-shaped cross-section, i.e. with a cross-section that has an opening at one point. Of course, the cross-section can also have a rectangular or essentially rectangular shape. In other words, a "slotted hollow profile" is understood here to mean a hollow profile that has a slot along its entire length or essentially along its entire length.

In embodiments, the first and/or the second outer module support profile can each be designed like an inner module support profile. In particular, in embodiments, all module support profiles can be designed identically.

In preferred embodiments, the inlet openings on the module support profile are evenly distributed over the entire length of the module support profile on its first profile area. For example, the inlet openings on the first profile area can be arranged at regular intervals from one another (equidistant).

The sizes of the inlet openings on the first profile areas of the module support profiles can be chosen differently depending on the design. For example, the sizes of the inlet openings can be chosen depending on the required or estimated water requirements of the plants that are intended to be planted under the module table (i.e., the framework on which photovoltaic modules are supported; see the second aspect below).

The inlet openings and/or the outlet openings can be designed in the shape of a slot, for example. At least some of the slot-shaped inlet openings and/or some of the slot-shaped outlet openings of a module support profile can extend in particular in the longitudinal direction of the mounting profile or along a partial region of the mounting profile.

When stored on the framework, the photovoltaic modules can be supported directly by the module support profiles on which they rest. Alternatively or additionally, the photovoltaic modules can also be initially connected to a module plate by a framework. In this case, the framework can be supported by the framework. In such embodiments, the photovoltaic modules are held by the framework, while the framework is in turn supported on the framework. In embodiments, at least some of the photovoltaic modules can be supported by both the framework and the module support profiles.

In an embodiment of the framework according to the first aspect, the module support profiles are arranged such that the photovoltaic modules can be stored between two module support profiles, wherein at least one edge or edge region of a photovoltaic module rests on the first profile area of one of the inner module support profiles and an opposite edge or an opposite edge area of this photovoltaic module rests on the first profile area of another inner module support profile or on one of the outer module support profiles.

In one embodiment of the framework, the photovoltaic modules can be mounted on the framework in such a way that for each pair of photovoltaic modules arranged opposite one another with respect to an inner module support profile, the respective photovoltaic modules rest on the corresponding inner module support profile at a distance from one another with respect to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the inner module profile, wherein the inlet openings of the inner module support profile, which are located between the corresponding photovoltaic modules in the longitudinal direction of the inner module support profile, are each located at least partially between the opposite edges or opposite edge regions of the respective photovoltaic modules in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the module support profile.

In one embodiment of the framework, the module support profiles are arranged parallel to each other and each aligned parallel to a first direction.

In one embodiment of the framework, the distance between two adjacent module support profiles is identical for each pair of adjacent module support profiles.

In such an embodiment, the photovoltaic modules that are intended to be supported between two specific module support profiles can all have the same dimensions in at least one direction. In particular, all of these photovoltaic modules can then have an identical shape, for example. In the preferred embodiment, in which the distance between two adjacent module support profiles is identical for each pair of adjacent module support profiles, even all of the module support profiles can all have the same dimensions in at least one direction. In particular, in this case, all of the photovoltaic modules used can have an identical shape, for example.

In one embodiment of the framework, the module support profiles are arranged on a first virtual level.

In one embodiment of the framework, the first virtual plane has an angle of inclination relative to a second virtual plane that is aligned orthogonal to the direction of the gravitational force. The angle of inclination at which the first virtual plane is inclined relative to the second virtual plane can be between 0° and 90°. Preferably, the angle of inclination is between 1° and 30°. More preferably, the angle of inclination can be between 5° and 20°. Most preferably, the angle of inclination is between 10° and 15°. For example, the angle of inclination can be 13° or 14°. With embodiments of the framework in which the first virtual plane is inclined relative to the second virtual plane, photovoltaic systems in particular can be realized (see the second aspect of the invention; see below), in which the entirety of the photovoltaic modules forms a type of roof from which water raining onto the photovoltaic system can flow diagonally downwards. During this drainage, the water then also reaches areas between adjacent photovoltaic modules (transverse to the longitudinal direction of the module support profiles), each of which has a module support profile. Water therefore reaches the respective inner areas of the module support profiles through the inlet openings in the respective first profile areas, where it is then directed to the corresponding outlet openings. If a module support profile cannot absorb all of the water that reaches its first profile area, excess water reaches the next photovoltaic module that runs diagonally downwards from this module support profile and can then be absorbed by an adjacent module support profile or flow further. If, however, the first virtual level is not inclined relative to the second virtual level, the effect described above also occurs in a similar way if enough rainwater has accumulated on the photovoltaic modules, with the difference that the direction of flow here is not determined by the angle of inclination, but in principle will or can occur radially from a central area of the "flat roof" formed by the photovoltaic modules to its edges.

In one embodiment of the framework, a gutter for collecting rainwater (rain gutter) is attached to at least one of the outer module support profiles.

This is particularly useful if - in the case of a photovoltaic system implemented with the framework (see the second aspect described below) - more water volume falls on the entire photovoltaic modules per unit of time during a downpour than can be absorbed by the inlet openings in the same unit of time. In this case, water that is not absorbed by the inlet openings directly adjacent to a photovoltaic module (hereinafter also referred to as "module") is drained through such inlet openings. washed away and thus either reaches an adjacent module or, in the case of an edge module resting on a module support profile to which a collecting channel is attached, into the collecting channel, from which the water can then be directed to a water tank or into a water guidance system (e.g. a hose or a pipe).

If the photovoltaic modules are each inclined (for example, if the first virtual plane on which the modules are arranged has an inclination in relation to the second virtual plane, which is arranged parallel to the ground surface; see above), it may be sufficient to attach a collecting channel to the outer module support profile that is arranged lower than the other outer module support profile.

In embodiments, however, collecting channels can also be arranged on each of the two outer module support profiles. In further embodiments, alternatively or additionally, collecting channels can also be arranged on those edges of the module table that extend between the two outer module support profiles.

In embodiments, the framework may further comprise collecting containers, wherein the collecting channels are guided such that water collected by the collecting channels is drained into the collecting containers.

In one embodiment of the framework, the mounting device further comprises a plurality of cross struts. At least some of the module support profiles are supported on at least a portion of the cross struts or mounted on at least a portion of the cross struts.

In embodiments, the cross struts can be aligned parallel to one another. Furthermore, the distance between two adjacent cross struts can be identical for each pair of adjacent cross struts. For example, particularly in embodiments in which the module support profiles are arranged parallel to one another (see above), the cross struts can be arranged orthogonally to the module support profiles.

In one embodiment of the framework, the mounting device further comprises a plurality of support struts. The support struts are designed to be placed on the ground or anchored in the ground or are placed on the ground or anchored in the ground. The cross struts are each supported on one, two or more support struts or mounted on one, two or more support struts.

In embodiments, the support struts are each designed to be placed vertically on the ground or anchored in the ground or are placed vertically on the ground or anchored vertically in the ground. The support struts can be inserted directly into the ground, preferably soil. Alternatively, the support struts can also be designed to be placed on or anchored to a base, for example a concrete base; this can improve the stability of the placement or anchoring.

In embodiments, at least a portion of the support struts - or, alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the cross struts - may be supported by a wall, for example by a building wall, or be designed to be supported on a building wall. This may be particularly advantageous in situations where the support structure is to be erected close to a wall, for example at a location adjacent to a building.

The support struts can be designed to be adjustable in height. This allows the height of the module profiles above the floor surface to be adjusted.

In one embodiment of the framework, the framework further comprises a pipe system and at least one collecting container for collecting rainwater. At least some of the outlet openings or at least one of the end openings are implemented as connection openings that are intended for connection to the pipe system. The connection openings are connected to the at least one collecting container via the pipe system. In addition, the pipe system is suitable for conducting rainwater from the at least one connection opening to the at least one collecting container.

The term "connecting" or "joining" a pipe, hose, gutter or piping system or the like to an opening (e.g. an inlet opening or outlet opening or the like) is understood in the following to mean in particular that the pipe, hose or piping system etc. is connected to the opening in a watertight or substantially watertight manner in such a way that a substantially annular end cross-section of the pipe, hose etc. rests against an edge region of the opening and is completely - or in the case of a gutter at least partially - guided around this opening. Water which then exits the pipe, hose, gutter etc. through the end cross-section of the pipe or hose etc. then necessarily passes through the opening, and conversely water which exits from the opening not connected to the hose, pipe, gutter etc. side of the opening through the opening, necessarily into the hose, pipe, gutter, etc.

The collecting containers are used in particular to store the rainwater that is introduced into them. In embodiments, one or more of the collecting containers can be a container - for example a barrel, a drum, or a container - or a basin. Preferably, all or at least some of the collecting containers are located below the connection openings. In this case, if the pipe system is suitably routed, no additional energy (i.e., in particular no pump) is required to guide rainwater emerging from the connection openings to the containers, since in this case the force of gravity can be used to drive or move the rainwater.

The line system can have a line for conducting water or a plurality of lines for conducting water. In embodiments, the lines can each have hoses, pipes and/or gutters. For example, a line can be led from at least one (for example from each) of the connection openings to one of the collecting containers. Alternatively, a line can lead or open from each of the connection openings into a collecting hose or a collecting pipe, which then leads to a collecting container. The collecting containers can have suitable inlet devices that are suitable for connection to a line of the line system and for introducing water from the line into the respective collecting container.

In embodiments, at least one of the support struts can have a hollow profile. In such embodiments, a part of the line system can run through such support struts with a hollow profile (for example, this part of the line system can comprise a line section - e.g. a hose section or a pipe section - which is located at least in a partial area of a support strut with a hollow profile) or a part of the line system can be realized directly through the hollow profile of such support struts. Such support struts can then in turn each have an inlet device (e.g. an opening) and an outlet device (e.g. an opening). The inlet device can be located above the outlet device. For example, in embodiments, a line can be led from at least one (e.g. from each) of the connection openings to one of the support struts with a hollow profile and connected to the corresponding inlet device. From the corresponding outlet device, a line can then in turn lead to one of the collecting containers and be connected to an inlet device of the collecting container.

In embodiments, at least one of the cross struts can have a hollow profile. In such embodiments, a part of the line system can run through such cross struts with a hollow profile (for example, this part of the line system can comprise a line section that is located at least in a partial area of a cross strut with a hollow profile) or a part of the line system can be realized directly through the hollow profile of such cross struts. Such cross struts can then in turn each have an inlet device (e.g. an opening) and an outlet device (e.g. an opening). The inlet device can be located above the outlet device. This can be the case in particular in embodiments in which the module support profiles are arranged on a first virtual plane that has an inclination angle θ with respect to a second virtual plane that is aligned orthogonal to the direction of the gravitational force (see above).

Connection openings of mounting profiles can be connected to inlet devices of cross struts by means of lines. However, since the mounting profiles rest on the cross struts, in embodiments connection openings of mounting profiles can also be directly connected to correspondingly positioned inlet devices of cross struts on which the respective mounting profile rests. Accordingly, outlet devices of cross struts can be connected to inlet devices of support struts by means of lines. However, since the cross struts are supported by the support struts, in embodiments outlet devices of cross struts can also be directly connected to correspondingly positioned inlet devices of support struts.

In embodiments in which both part of the support struts are realized as support struts with a hollow profile and part of the cross struts are realized as cross struts with a hollow profile, water that exits from the connection opening can first be introduced into the hollow profile of a cross strut and then, after exiting the cross strut, can be introduced into a support strut. After exiting the support strut, the water is then introduced into one of the collecting containers.

In one embodiment of the framework, the pipe system has one or more first pumps. The first pumps are each designed to pump water from one or more connection openings to one or more collecting containers.

The use of the first pumps is particularly advantageous when at least some of the collecting containers are set up or installed at a higher height than at least some of the connection openings. In such embodiments, the electrical energy required to operate the first pumps can be generated and provided entirely or at least partially by photovoltaic modules mounted on the support structure (see the second aspect of the present invention). In embodiments, at least one accumulator can also be used to temporarily store the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules. This makes the operation of the first pumps with electrical energy produced by the photovoltaic modules independent of time or more independent of the direct light radiation (sunlight) present at a given time.

In one embodiment, the framework further comprises an irrigation system. The one or more collecting containers are each connected to the irrigation system. In addition, the irrigation system is suitable for directing water in the collecting container or containers to predefined destinations.

The term "target locations" is understood here to mean in particular locations of plants that are planted under the framework or in an area surrounding the framework. The irrigation system can have an irrigation line or a plurality of irrigation lines for conducting water. In embodiments, the irrigation lines can each have hoses, pipes and/or gutters. For example, an irrigation line that is directly connected to one of the collecting containers can lead to each target location. The collecting containers can have suitable discharge devices for this purpose, which are suitable for connecting to an irrigation line of the irrigation system and for discharging water from the respective collecting container into an irrigation line connected to it. Alternatively or additionally, the irrigation system can have one or more distributors, the distributors each having an inflow device and a plurality of discharge devices. In this case, for each distributor, its inflow device can be connected to one of the collecting containers (by a suitable irrigation line, for example by a hose or a pipe), and further irrigation lines can be connected to its discharge devices, which then lead to the target locations.

The irrigation system can then direct rainwater that is stored in the at least one collecting container to plants that are located below the framework or at least near the framework. In particular, such an irrigation system can then also direct rainwater to specific areas of plants (e.g. to the stem, trunk, one or more branches or leaves) or to a suitable area surrounding a plant to be watered (e.g. to a circular area around the plant, below which at least the majority of the plant's roots are located). In embodiments, the water can also be directed from the irrigation system directly into the soil (i.e. below the surface of the soil) in such an area surrounding a plant to be watered. This makes it possible to avoid undesirable evaporation of water, particularly at high temperatures and/or high levels of solar radiation.

In some embodiments, water dispensers for animals (for example for grazing sheep, horses or cows) can also be installed in the collection containers, so that the collection containers are also suitable as water containers for animals.

In one embodiment of the framework, at least some of the collecting containers are installed above ground level.

In preferred embodiments, all or at least several of the collecting containers are also set up or installed in such a way that the bottom surface of the reservoir provided by a collecting container (the term "reservoir" is understood here to mean the interior area or cavity of the collecting container in which the rainwater is actually collected) is located above the bottom surface on which the framework is set up. In this case, if the irrigation system is suitably guided, no additional energy (i.e., in particular no pump) is required to guide the rainwater in the collecting containers set up or installed as described above through the irrigation system to the rainwater's destination (i.e., in particular the plants located below the framework or in the vicinity of the framework), since in this case the force of gravity can be used to drive or move the water.

In one embodiment of the framework, the irrigation system has one or more second pumps. The second pumps are each designed to pump water from the collecting containers, through the irrigation system to the predefined destinations.

The use of the second pumps is particularly advantageous when at least some of the collecting containers are installed underground or at ground level (e.g. cisterns or basins). In such embodiments, the electrical energy required to operate the second pumps can be generated and provided entirely or at least partially by photovoltaic modules mounted on the framework (see the second aspect of the present invention). In embodiments, at least one accumulator can also be used to temporarily store the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules. This can be the same accumulator or accumulators that are also provided for temporarily storing electrical energy to operate the first pumps. By using one or more accumulators, the operation of the second pumps with electrical energy produced by the photovoltaic modules becomes independent of time or more independent of the direct light radiation (sunlight) present at a given time.

In the design of the framework, all outlet openings are implemented as connection openings. Such designs can be used in particular when the primary purpose is to fill the collecting containers with rainwater, for example when no plants are to be grown directly under the framework.

In one embodiment of the framework, at least some of the outlet openings are designed as drip openings.

Rainwater that is in the module support profile can escape from the drip openings of a module support profile and then drip down from the module support profile. “Drip openings” are understood to be openings or outlet devices through which the water is discharged without being directed into a connected pipe or container. A drip opening can be a simple opening, but can alternatively also comprise a device through which the dripping of water from the module support profiles is specifically controlled or at least influenced, such as a short piece of pipe (e.g. to concentrate the flowing water jet), a funnel, a spout or a shower head or shower mouthpiece that functions and/or is designed in a similar way or identical to a shower head or the shower mouthpiece of a watering can, and with which the water can be distributed more evenly under the framework.

If the framework is equipped with photovoltaic modules according to the second aspect of the invention described below, rainwater can drip through the drip openings into the area below the framework, reaching in particular the areas below the module support profiles (“drip edge”). In other words, the arrangement of the module support profiles can be used to specifically control which areas below the framework the rainwater should reach, or at least prefer to reach. Depending on the requirements of the plants that are intended to be grown below the framework, these plants can then be planted or positioned in such a way that they receive the optimal calculation. For many types of plants, for example, it is advantageous if their leaves are not watered, but rather they are positioned at a certain distance next to the “drip edge” so that the majority of the water reaches the area next to the plant in the area of its roots.

In embodiments of the framework, all outlet openings can be implemented as drip openings. Such embodiments can be used in particular when the primary purpose is to irrigate under the framework (or under the photovoltaic system implemented with this framework according to the second aspect of the invention) without the need to collect rainwater in collecting containers.

In one embodiment of the framework, at least one module support profile has a slider, the slider being inserted into the module support profile. The slider has an elongated bar with control openings. In particular, the slider is mounted on the second profile area in the module support profile so that it can be moved in the longitudinal direction. The arrangement and shape of the control openings on the bar is preferably congruent with that of the drip openings in the second profile area of the module support profile.

The slider can be used to control the maximum water flow through the drip openings in a module support profile. In other words, the slider can be used to set the maximum volume of water that can pass through the drip openings per unit of time. The maximum water flow can be achieved if the slider is adjusted on the second profile area so that all control openings are positioned directly on their respective pot openings in the second profile area, so that no part of the drip openings is covered by the bar of the slider. By moving the slider, parts of the drip openings can now be covered so that the effective opening area available for the drainage of water in the module support profile through a drip opening is reduced for each of the drip openings, and thus the maximum flow through the respective drip opening is reduced. With a corresponding design of the module support profile and the slider located therein, in extreme cases the drip openings can also be completely closed by the slider. In this case - if the framework is assembled with a set of photovoltaic modules to form a photovoltaic system according to the second aspect of the invention - all the water flows over the edge of the photovoltaic system (whereby in certain embodiments it can be collected by collecting channels and directed to storage containers; see above) and/or in corresponding embodiments reaches corresponding collecting containers through connection openings and a pipe system connected to them (see above).

A second aspect of the invention relates to a photovoltaic system that is suitable for collecting and draining rainwater. The photovoltaic system has a set of photovoltaic modules and a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules and for collecting and draining rainwater according to the first aspect (see above) or one of the embodiments of the first aspect. Each of the photovoltaic modules is mounted between two module support profiles, with an edge or an edge region of the photovoltaic module resting on the first profile region of one of the inner module support profiles and an opposite edge or an opposite edge region of the photovoltaic module resting on the first profile region of another inner module support profile or on one of the outer module support profiles. For each pair of photovoltaic modules arranged opposite one another with respect to an inner module support profile, the respective photovoltaic modules rest on the corresponding inner module support profile at a distance from one another with respect to a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the inner module profile, wherein the inlet openings of the inner module support profile, which are located between the corresponding photovoltaic modules in the longitudinal direction of the inner module support profile, are each located at least partially between the opposite edges or opposite edge regions of the respective photovoltaic modules in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction of the module support profile.

In preferred embodiments, the photovoltaic modules each have a rectangular shape. In embodiments, the photovoltaic modules are supported or mounted on the framework in such a way that for each pair of two photovoltaic modules adjacent in the longitudinal direction of the module support profiles, the corresponding photovoltaic modules are flush with one another. This avoids gaps between two photovoltaic modules adjacent in the longitudinal direction through which rainwater could pass between these two photovoltaic modules in an uncontrolled and undesirable manner and drip into the area under the framework. In other words, this prevents undesirable runoff of rainwater through gaps between photovoltaic modules adjacent in the longitudinal direction. If the photovoltaic modules are all arranged on one (virtual) level, the entirety of the photovoltaic modules is also referred to below as a "module plate".

The photovoltaic modules are preferably attached to the framework (e.g. to the module support profiles) by means of a suitable fastening means (e.g. by screwing).

In embodiments, the photovoltaic modules are assembled into a module plate by means of a frame or framework, and the module plate is supported or mounted on the support structure. The frame or framework can be attached to the support structure (e.g. to the module support profiles) by means of a suitable fastening means (e.g. by screwing).

In one embodiment of the photovoltaic system, the photovoltaic modules are bifacial glass-glass modules.

Bifacial glass-glass photovoltaic modules offer a higher light transmission compared to conventional photovoltaic modules, which has a beneficial effect on the growth and prosperity of the plants grown under the module table, especially for plant species that prefer sunny or at least light-rich locations.

In one embodiment of the photovoltaic system, the one or more first pumps are each electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules or electrically connected to an accumulator which is electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules.

In one embodiment of the photovoltaic system, the one or more second pumps are each electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules or electrically connected to an accumulator which is electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules.

With the above-described framework according to the first aspect of the invention or the photovoltaic system according to the second aspect of the invention, a dual-use concept of energy generation and sustainable cultivation of agricultural crops, such as vegetables, herbs and special crops - directly under and between the photovoltaic modules - is made possible.

The bifacial glass-glass modules used in preferred embodiments of the photovoltaic system according to the invention offer in particular a higher light transmittance than conventional photovoltaic modules, so that plants can thrive well under the photovoltaic modules.

1. a) Bereitstellen einer Photovoltaikanlage gemäß dem zweiten Aspekt;
2. b) Auffangen von auf die Photovoltaikanlage fallenden Wassertropfen durch mindestens eines der Photovoltaikmodule;
3. c) Leiten des aufgefangenen Wassers mittels zumindest einem der Photovoltaikmodule, die in Schritt b) Wasser aufgefangen haben, zu wenigstens einem der inneren Modultragprofile;
4. d) Einleiten des Wassers, das in Schritt c) zu wenigstens einem der inneren Modultragprofile geleitetet worden ist, in den Innenbereich des wenigstens einen inneren Modultragprofils durch im jeweiligen ersten Profilbereich befindliche Einlassöffnungen;
5. e) Weiterleiten, im Innenbereich des wenigstens einen inneren Modultragprofils, in das in Schritt d) Wasser eingeleitet worden ist, zu mindestens einer im zweiten Profilbereich des jeweiligen inneren Modultragprofils befindlichen Auslassöffnung und/oder zu mindestens einer Endöffnung des jeweiligen inneren Modultragprofils;
6. f) Ableiten des Wassers aus der mindestens einen Auslassöffnung und/oder aus der mindestens einen Endöffnung, zu der in Schritt e) Wasser weitergeleitet worden ist.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for collecting and draining water using a photovoltaic system. The method comprises the following steps:

1. (a) providing a photovoltaic system according to the second aspect;
2. b) collection of water droplets falling on the photovoltaic system by at least one of the photovoltaic modules;
3. c) directing the collected water by means of at least one of the photovoltaic modules which have collected water in step b) to at least one of the inner module support profiles;
4. d) introducing the water which has been directed to at least one of the inner module support profiles in step c) into the inner region of the at least one inner module support profile through inlet openings located in the respective first profile region;
5. e) forwarding, in the inner region of the at least one inner module support profile into which water has been introduced in step d), to at least one outlet opening located in the second profile region of the respective inner module support profile and/or to at least one end opening of the respective inner module support profile;
6. f) draining the water from the at least one outlet opening and/or from the at least one end opening to which water has been passed in step e).

Preferably, in step a), the photovoltaic system is set up outdoors, i.e. set up in such a way that the system - in suitable weather conditions - is exposed to natural irrigation by raindrops falling from the sky. However, alternative installations of the photovoltaic system are also conceivable in which the photovoltaic system is under a roof (e.g. in a greenhouse) or at least partially covered by roofs (e.g. by buildings that are later erected very close to the photovoltaic system). In these cases, the photovoltaic system can then be used to collect and drain water if water is piped to the photovoltaic system - for example through pipes. Of course, water can also be piped to an open-air (free-standing) photovoltaic system; in these cases, the photovoltaic system can then collect and drain both rainwater falling directly from the sky and water supplied from other sources.

A fourth aspect of the invention relates to a method for irrigating a ground surface with a photovoltaic system. This method comprises the steps of the method for collecting and draining water according to the third aspect, wherein in step a) the photovoltaic system is provided in particular on the ground surface to be irrigated; wherein in step e) the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening; and wherein in step f) the water falls from the at least one outlet opening to which water was passed on in step e) onto the ground surface to be irrigated.

• g) Leiten des Wassers, durch ein Leitungssystem, aus der wenigstens einen Auslassöffnung in mindestens ein Auffangbehältnis.

A fifth aspect of the invention relates to a method for storing water with a photovoltaic system. This method comprises the steps of the method for collecting and draining water according to the third aspect, wherein in step e) the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening and/or one end opening, which is implemented as a connection opening; and wherein the method for storing water with a photovoltaic system comprises the following further step:

• g) guiding the water, through a pipe system, from the at least one outlet opening into at least one collecting container.

In one embodiment of the method for storing water with a photovoltaic system according to the fifth aspect, in step g) the conduction of the water through the pipe system is effected or supported by one or more first pumps. Preferably, the energy for operating the one or more first pumps is provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules.

• h) Leiten des Wassers, durch ein Bewässerungssystem, aus dem mindestens einen Auffangbehältnis zu einem oder mehreren vordefinierten Zielorten.

A sixth aspect of the invention relates to a method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system, comprising the steps of the method for storing water according to the fifth aspect, wherein the method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system includes the following additional step:

• h) directing the water, through an irrigation system, from the at least one collection container to one or more predefined destinations.

In one embodiment of the method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system according to the sixth aspect, in step h) the conduction of the water through the irrigation system is effected or supported by one or more second pumps. Preferably, the energy for operating the one or more second pumps is provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules.

A seventh aspect of the invention relates to the use of a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules as a device for collecting and draining rainwater, wherein the framework comprises a plurality of module support profiles and a mounting device for supporting the module support profiles. The plurality of module support profiles comprises a first outer module support profile, a second outer module support profile and one or more inner module support profiles. The inner module support profiles are arranged between the first outer module support profile and the second outer module support profile. Each of the inner module support profiles is a hollow profile or a slotted hollow profile that has a first profile area and a second profile area that is opposite the first profile area. For each of the inner module support profiles, the first profile area has a plurality of inlet openings and is also suitable for supporting edges or edge areas of photovoltaic modules. In addition, for each of the inner module support profiles, the second profile area has at least one outlet opening and/or the respective module support profile has an end opening at one or both of its ends. Furthermore, the photovoltaic modules can be stored on the framework in such a way that at least some of the inlet openings are not or only partially covered by photovoltaic modules.

In a preferred embodiment, the use of a framework according to the seventh aspect comprises providing a photovoltaic system according to the second aspect; collecting water drops falling onto the photovoltaic system by at least one of the photovoltaic modules; directing the collected water by means of at least one of the photovoltaic modules through which water was collected to at least one of the inner module support profiles; introducing the water that has been directed to at least one of the inner module support profiles into the inner region of the at least one inner module support profile through inlet openings located in the respective first profile region; forwarding it, in the inner region of the at least one inner module support profile into which water has been introduced, to at least one outlet opening located in the second profile region of the respective inner module support profile and/or to at least one end opening of the respective inner module support profile; and draining the water from the at least one outlet opening and/or from the at least one end opening to which water has been forwarded.

An eighth aspect of the invention relates to the use of a photovoltaic system as a device for irrigating a ground surface. This includes the use of the framework of the photovoltaic system as a device for collecting and draining water according to the seventh aspect, wherein the provision of the photovoltaic system takes place in particular on the ground surface to be irrigated; wherein, in the interior region of the at least one inner module support profile into which water has been introduced, the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening; and wherein the water falls from the at least one outlet opening to which water has been passed on to the ground surface to be irrigated.

A ninth aspect of the invention relates to the use of a photovoltaic system as a device for storing water. This includes the use of the framework of the photovoltaic system as a device for collecting and draining water according to the seventh aspect, wherein, in the interior of the at least one inner module support profile into which water has been introduced, the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening and/or an end opening, which is implemented as a connection opening; and wherein the use of the photovoltaic system as a device for storing water further comprises guiding the water, by means of a pipe system, from the at least one outlet opening into at least one collecting container. In embodiments, the guiding of the water through the pipe system can be effected or supported by one or more first pumps, wherein the energy for operating the one or more first pumps is preferably provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules.

A tenth aspect of the invention relates to the use of a photovoltaic system as a device for irrigation. This includes the use of the photovoltaic system as a device for storing water according to the ninth aspect, wherein the use of the photovoltaic system as a device for irrigation further comprises a Directing the water by means of an irrigation system comprising at least one collecting container to one or more predefined destinations. In embodiments, the directing of the water through the irrigation system can be effected or supported by one or more second pumps, wherein the energy for operating the one or more second pumps is preferably provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules.

As described at the beginning, another prerequisite for productive cultivation is the targeted irrigation of the plants. The sensible and sustainable way to do this is to use rain that falls on the photovoltaic modules. The framework and photovoltaic system according to the invention make it possible to direct this rainwater specifically to the plants.

Roughly speaking, the technical solution consists in using the framework according to the invention to collect and distribute the rainwater that falls on it. It is a special substructure for a natural and even distribution of rainwater under the photovoltaic modules.

Short description of the characters

• 1 illustriert schematisch eine Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Ständerwerks und der erfindungsgemäßen Photovoltaikanlage mit Hilfe einer Perspektivzeichnung;
• 2 zeigt schematisch ein Detail einer Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Ständerwerks und der erfindungsgemäßen Photovoltaikanlage in perspektivischer Ansicht;
• 3 zeigt in dreidimensionaler Ansicht beispielhaft die landwirtschaftliche Nutzung einer Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemäßen Photovoltaikanlage;
• 4 stellt einen schematischen Querschnitt durch sowie eine Draufsicht auf ein inneres Modultragprofil einer Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Ständerwerks dar;
• 5 zeigt schematisch einen Querschnitt und einen Längsschnitt durch ein inneres Modultragprofil einer weiteren Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Ständerwerks;
• 6 illustriert schematisch verschiedene Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemäßen Photovoltaikanlage mit Auffangbehältnissen; und
• 7 illustriert schematisch das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren zum Sammeln und Ableiten von Wasser mit einer Photovoltaikanlage.

The framework according to the invention and the photovoltaic system according to the invention are described in detail below using embodiments and the drawings.

• 1 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the framework according to the invention and the photovoltaic system according to the invention with the aid of a perspective drawing;
• 2 shows schematically a detail of an embodiment of the framework according to the invention and the photovoltaic system according to the invention in a perspective view;
• 3 shows in three-dimensional view an example of the agricultural use of an embodiment of the photovoltaic system according to the invention;
• 4 shows a schematic cross-section through and a plan view of an inner module support profile of an embodiment of the framework according to the invention;
• 5 shows schematically a cross section and a longitudinal section through an inner module support profile of a further embodiment of the stud frame according to the invention;
• 6 schematically illustrates various embodiments of the photovoltaic system according to the invention with collecting containers; and
• 7 schematically illustrates the inventive method for collecting and draining water with a photovoltaic system.

Detailed description of the invention in various embodiments

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments and features of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements. Conversely, however, like corresponding elements in different drawings may be provided with different reference numerals if a passage of the description is intended to refer to a particular drawing. Redundant descriptions will be omitted. The term "and/or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements. Furthermore, the use of "may" when describing embodiments of the present invention refers to "one or more embodiments of the present invention."

It is to be understood that terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various elements, but these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

In the following description of embodiments of the present invention, the use of the singular may also include the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Relative expressions to describe spatial relationships such as "below", "below", "above", "above", "above", "spaced" and the like may be used below to simplify the description, whereby the spatial relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature is then to be understood as shown in the figures. If one or more coordinate systems are shown in a figure, relative expressions can also refer to a coordinate system; this is generally expressly referred to again in the relevant passage of the description. It is understood that the spatially relative Expressions are intended to encompass, in addition to the orientation shown in the figures, various orientations of the device used, at least in cases where the operation does not depend on the presence of the gravitational force. For example, if a device shown in the drawings (and possibly also each of the coordinate systems shown) is turned over, elements described as being "below" other elements or features would consequently be positioned "above" the other elements or features. The device may be oriented differently (e.g. rotated by 90° or in other orientations); in this case, the prepositions used here to describe spatial relations are to be reinterpreted accordingly.

It is also to be understood that when a first element is described as being "attached to" a second element, the first element may be attached directly to the second element, or it may be attached to the second element through one or more intervening other elements. Furthermore, it is also to be understood that when an element is described as being "between" two other elements, it may be the only element between the two other elements, or it may be accompanied by one or more intervening other elements.

In the 1 to 3 Various perspective views are used to illustrate schematically embodiments of the framework according to the invention and the photovoltaic system according to the invention. To simplify the description, a Cartesian coordinate system with the axes x, y, z is also shown in the figures. The z-axis should be aligned against the direction of the gravitational force. The photovoltaic system 1 is installed on a floor surface 70. Even if the floor surface 70 in the 1 and 2 is only schematically indicated by a plane, the ground surface 70 can be, for example, a field, a meadow or another agriculturally used area, as can be seen from the example in the 3 The photovoltaic system 1 has a plurality of identically designed photovoltaic modules M, each of which has the shape of a rectangular plate. In particular, the photovoltaic modules M are arranged in a matrix, so that the entirety of the photovoltaic modules M forms a module plate, in which in the 1 In the embodiment shown, 5 rows of photovoltaic modules are arranged in a first direction parallel to the x-axis of the coordinate system and 11 columns of photovoltaic modules are arranged in a second direction parallel to the y-axis of the coordinate system. If a specific photovoltaic module in the module plate of the photovoltaic system 1 of 1 This is denoted by M _ij , where the first index i ∈ {1, 2, ..., 11} refers to the column and the second index j ∈ {1, 2, ..., 5} refers to the row where the photovoltaic module in question is located in the module plate. This also applies to the 2 and 3 The photovoltaic modules M can be locked together by a frame or other struts 50.

Preferably, the photovoltaic modules M are bifacial glass-glass modules, which have a higher light transmittance compared to conventional photovoltaic modules. This generally has a beneficial effect on the growth and development of plants growing under the module plate.

The module plate with the photovoltaic modules M arranged in a matrix is supported on a framework and preferably also fixed to it. The framework comprises a large number of module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ as well as a mounting device which has support struts and cross struts. In the 1 In the embodiments shown, the framework has a number of 18 support struts S ₁₁ , S ₁₂ , S ₂₁ , S ₂₂ , ..., S ₉₂ (which are partially covered by other components or, for the sake of clarity, 1 are not designated), which are each implemented here as piles or posts inserted vertically into the floor surface 70. The support struts S ₁₁ , S ₁₂ , S ₂₁ , S ₂₂ , ..., S ₉₂ are arranged on the floor surface 70 in such a way that two parallel rows of 9 support struts each extend along the x-direction, resulting in 9 pairs of support struts, with two support struts for each pair being arranged one behind the other in the y-direction. Furthermore, the framework has a number of 9 cross struts Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ , ... (which are also in 1 partly hidden by other components or for the sake of clarity in 1 not designated), each mounted on one of the aforementioned 9 pairs of support struts arranged one behind the other in the y-direction.

The support struts of the first row of support struts S ₁₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₃₁ , ... arranged one behind the other in the x-direction (in 1 the rear row of support struts; partially covered by the module plate) each have a first height h ₁ , and the support struts of the second row of support struts S ₂₁ , S ₂₂ , ..., S ₄₂ , S ₅₂ , S ₆₂ , ..., S ₉₂ arranged in the x-direction (in 1 The first row of support struts (the front row of support struts) each have a second height h ₁ , whereby the height of the support struts is measured from the floor surface 70, which is assumed to be approximately planar. The first height h ₁ is higher than the second height h ₂ , so h ₁ > h ₂ applies. For the cross struts Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ , ..., which are each mounted on one of the aforementioned 9 pairs of support struts arranged one behind the other in the y-direction, this results in a course parallel to the yz-plane of the coordinate system, whereby the cross struts each have an inclination angle θ in relation to the floor surface 70 (i.e. relative to the xy-plane of the coordinate system or a plane parallel to the xy-plane of the coordinate system) (see also 3 ).

The above-described arrangement of support struts S ₁₁ , ..., S ₉₂ and cross struts Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ , ... formed by the holding device can be further stabilized by additional struts. In particular, the holder can be stabilized by diagonal struts against shear forces, which typically arise from wind forces acting on the photovoltaic system. For example, the holding device can be supported by first diagonal struts, which each run between a lower or middle area of a support strut and a middle area of a cross strut, against shear forces that are directed parallel to the yz plane (triggered, for example, by wind that blows in or against the y direction or whose speed at least has a component in or against this direction). For example, in the embodiments of the 1 and 2 a diagonal brace 62 between a lower or middle area of the support strut S ₁₂ and a middle area of the cross strut Q ₁ , whereby in particular the support struts S ₁₁ and S ₁₂ are secured against buckling in a plane parallel to the yz plane. In addition, the mounting device can be supported by second diagonal braces, each of which runs between a lower area of a support strut and the upper area of an adjacent support strut, against shear forces that are directed parallel to the xz surface (triggered, for example, by wind that blows in or against the x direction or whose speed at least has a component in or against this direction). For example, in the embodiments of the 1 to 3 a further diagonal bracing 60 between a lower region of the support strut S ₂₁ and an upper region of the adjacent support strut S ₁₁ , whereby in particular the support struts S ₁₁ and S ₂₁ are secured against buckling in a plane parallel to the xz plane (and thus, at least to a certain extent, also all other support struts of the first row of support struts S ₁₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₃₁ , ... running along the x-direction).

The framework now also includes a large number of module support profiles, each of which is mounted on the cross braces Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ , ... The frameworks of the embodiments of the 1 and 2 each comprise six module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ , which are each aligned parallel to the x-direction and arranged equidistant from one another. Due to the alignment of the cross struts Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ , ... described above, the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ therefore run in a virtual plane which has an inclination angle θ relative to the floor surface 70 (i.e. the xy plane). In the embodiment of the 2 the angle of inclination θ has a value between 13° and 14°. Those module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , which run between two other module support profiles, are referred to below as "inner module support profiles", the two remaining module support profiles P ₁ , P ₆ as "outer module support profiles".

The module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ each have an upper profile area 12 which is suitable for supporting and preferably also for fastening the photovoltaic modules M. In particular, the photovoltaic modules M can be supported with their longitudinal edges (ie with their edges which are also in the 1 - 3 in the x-direction) are supported on the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ , whereby at least the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ are designed to support the longitudinal edges of two adjacent photovoltaic modules (see 4 ). According to the invention, the module support profiles are equipped with further special features which essentially determine the ability of the disclosed framework and the disclosed photovoltaic system to collect, distribute and/or drain rainwater. These features are described below using the 4 described in detail.

Support struts, cross struts, module support profiles and, if necessary, diagonal struts are preferably made of metal, for example aluminum or stainless steel. However, other materials, such as hard plastic, can also be used.

With the help of the previously described framework, a photovoltaic system can now be constructed by supporting the photovoltaic modules M on the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ . Each photovoltaic module is arranged between two adjacent module support profiles. For example, as in the 2 shown, the photovoltaic module M ₂₂ is arranged between the two adjacent module support profiles P ₂ and P ₃ , wherein a first longitudinal edge K ₂₂₁ of the photovoltaic module M ₂₂ rests on an upper profile area 12 of the inner module support profile P ₂ and a second longitudinal edge K ₂₂₂ of the photovoltaic module M ₂₂ rests on the corresponding upper profile area of the inner module support profile P _3. In a similar way, the photovoltaic modules M ₂₃ and M ₁₃ are arranged between the adjacent module support profiles P ₃ and P ₄ (modular support profiles P ₄ is in 2 covered by the photovoltaic modules M ₂₃ and M ₁₃ ). The photovoltaic modules can be attached to the module support profiles. This can be done, for example, by screwing. 2 shown that the first longitudinal edge K ₁₃₁ of the photovoltaic module M ₁₃ is screwed to the module support profile P ₃ by connecting projections 42 protruding from the first longitudinal edge K ₁₃₁ to the module support profile P ₃ by means of screws 40. In addition, 2 also as an example the mounting of the cross strut Q ₁ on the support strut S ₁₁ by means of a screw fastening 46.

Furthermore, in particular the 1 and 2 can be seen, neighboring photovoltaic modules in the x-direction lie flush with each other with their opposite edges (these edges each run in a plane parallel to the yz plane), so that there are no or only negligible gaps between neighboring photovoltaic modules in the x-direction.

In the 3 illustrated embodiment of a photovoltaic system according to the invention (which is shown here complete with all photovoltaic modules) corresponds essentially to the embodiment of 1 with the difference that in the embodiment of the 3 fewer photovoltaic modules in the longitudinal direction than in the embodiment of 1 are arranged, and therefore the framework is also shorter in the x-direction (in the embodiment of the 3 with only 5 pairs of support struts arranged one behind the other in the x-direction compared to 9 pairs of support struts arranged one behind the other in the x-direction in the embodiment of 1 ). 2 can be used as a detailed view of 1 as well as a detailed view of 3 to be viewed as.

Before we go into more detail about the functioning of the framework according to the invention and the photovoltaic system according to the invention with regard to the collection, distribution and drainage of rainwater, we will use 4 The structure of an example of an internal module support profile is described, which in embodiments of the framework (for example in the embodiments of the 1 - 3 ) can be used. In the 4A - 4C A coordinate system is drawn in each case, the axes X, Y, Z of which are used to distinguish them from the coordinate systems of the 1 - 3 are marked with capital letters, because, depending on the design of the stud frame, the 4 shown module support profile P can be installed in the framework in such a way that the axes Y and Z of the coordinate systems of 4 by an angle relative to the axes y and z of the coordinate system of the 1 - 3 can be inclined, whereby at least the amount of this angle can correspond exactly to the above-described angle of inclination θ of the module plate with respect to the ground plane (but can possibly have an opposite direction of rotation).

4A shows a schematic cross-section through an inner module support profile P, in its longitudinal direction the module support profile P would thus be perpendicular to the image plane of the 4A extend. The inner module support profile P is designed in particular as a hollow profile, ie the module support profile P has a cavity I inside. The example of the module support profile P shown also has a slot 18 along its longitudinal direction. Such a hollow profile with a slot along its longitudinal direction is referred to here as a "slotted hollow profile". The cross section of the hollow profile is therefore C-shaped, whereby the hollow profile - as in the example - can of course also have a substantially rectangular shape apart from the slot.

The mounting profile P further comprises a first profile region 12 and an opposite second profile region 16, which are connected to one another by a third profile region 14. The slot 18 is not located on the first or second profile region 12, 16, but rather opposite the third profile region 14 in a fourth profile region 15, wherein the slot 18 does not lie directly against the second profile region 16, but is separated from the second profile region 16 by a partial region 15a of the fourth profile region 15, which extends in the direction of the first profile region 12.

The first profile area 12 has one or more inlet openings E. Preferably, the first profile area 12 has a plurality of inlet openings E arranged at regular intervals along the longitudinal axis of the module support profile P, as shown in 4B schematically illustrated, which represents a plan view of a partial section of the first profile area 12 of the module support profile P. In the example, the inlet openings E each have a circular shape. In other embodiments, however, the inlet openings E can also have other shapes, for example a slot-shaped shape similar to that of the inlet openings E in 4C shown outlet openings A.

The second profile area 16, which is arranged opposite the first profile area 12, has one or more outlet openings A. Preferably, the second profile area 16 has a plurality of outlet openings A arranged at regular intervals along the longitudinal axis of the module support profile P, as in 4C schematically shown, which is a plan view of a partial section of the second profile area 16 of the module support profile P. In the example, the outlet openings A each have a slot-like shape. In alternative embodiments, however, the outlet openings A can also have other shapes, such as a circular shape similar to that of the 4B shown inlet openings E.

The module support profile P is designed to be installed in (suitable embodiments) of the framework according to the invention in such a way that after installation the first profile area 12 is located above the second profile area 16 or mostly above the second profile area 16, even if after installation, for example, the axis Y of the coordinate system of 4 opposite the y axis of the coordinate system of the 1 - 3 is inclined by an angle. Furthermore, the upper profile area 12 of the module support profile P is designed in particular so that the edges or edge areas K ₁ and K ₂ of two (in the Y direction) adjacent photovoltaic modules M ₁ or M ₂ can be supported thereon. As already mentioned with regard to 2 described, the edges or edge areas K ₁ , K ₂ of the photovoltaic modules M ₁ , M ₂ can also be attached to the module support profile P (and preferably to its first profile area 12), for example by means of screwing (in 4 Not shown).

When the photovoltaic modules M ₁ and M ₂ are supported on the first profile region 12, the photovoltaic modules M ₁ , M ₂ are supported in particular in such a way that their opposite edges K ₁ and K ₂ are at a distance Δ from one another in relation to the Y direction, so that a partial region 12a of the first profile region 12 remains between the edges K ₁ , K ₂ which is not covered by either of the two photovoltaic modules M ₁ , M ₂ , this partial region 12a extending in the X direction over the entire section between the two edges K ₁ , K _2. In relation to the Y direction, the partial region 12a is positioned centrally on the first profile region 12. The inlet openings E of the first profile region 12 are now arranged in such a way that for each or at least for some of the inlet openings E, at least one partial section of the inlet opening is located in the partial region 12a. Preferably, all or at least a majority of the inlet openings E are arranged in the first profile region 12 such that for each inlet opening at least one section is located in the sub-region 12a. Preferably, an inlet opening is located entirely in the sub-region 12a.

Due to the arrangement described above, water 84 which collects on the outside of the first profile area 12 (i.e., for example, flows from at least one of the photovoltaic modules M ₁ , M ₂ into the partial area 12a) can pass through the inlet openings E into the inner area I of the module support profile P (in 4 indicated by the drops T'), drips or flows onto the inside of the second profile area 16 and collects there between the third profile area 14 and the fourth profile area 15 (or the partial area 15a of the fourth profile area 15). The rainwater can now flow or collect on the inside of the second profile area 16 until it can flow or drip down through one of the outlet openings A through the second profile area 16 (in 4 indicated by the drops T).

In order to prevent an undesirable drainage of water from the partial area 12a through gaps that may arise between the edges or edge areas K ₁ and/or K ₂ and the first profile area 12 during installation of the photovoltaic modules M ₁ , M ₂ on the module support profile P (e.g. due to slight unevenness or connections), an insulating device (for example a rubber layer) can be inserted between the edges or edge areas K ₁ , K ₂ and the first profile area 12.

The inner module support profile P can have end openings at one or both of its ends (seen in or opposite to the X direction). In embodiments, one or both end openings can each simply correspond to the cross section of the inner region I; this is the case if the corresponding ends of the inner module support profile P are simply given by a cross section through the module support profile P. For example, the inner module support profile P ₂ of the embodiments according to 2 has a first end opening O ₂₁ at its end facing the x-direction, and can have a second end opening O ₂₂ (not shown) at its end facing the x-direction. Accordingly, the inner module support profile P ₃ of the embodiments according to 2 at its end pointing opposite the x-direction, a first end opening O ₃₁ , and can have a second end opening O ₃₂ (not shown) at its end pointing in the x-direction. The end openings can each have a larger opening area than the outlet openings A. Excess water that could not be drained from the module support profile P through the outlet openings A can then leave the module support profile P through an end opening.

The collection, distribution and/or drainage of rainwater by a photovoltaic system can thus be 1 - 3 can be described as follows: Rainwater 82, which falls from a cloud 80 onto the photovoltaic system 1 during rainy weather, initially falls onto the surfaces of the photovoltaic modules M. the inclination of the photovoltaic modules M, the water that hits them begins to flow away from the photovoltaic modules M. All photovoltaic modules, with the exception of those that rest with their lower longitudinal edge on the outer module support profile P ₆ , lie with their lower longitudinal edge in the direction shown above with reference to the 4 described manner on one of the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , each of which is similar or identical to the 4 described module support profile P. For the sake of simplicity, photovoltaic modules that rest on the lower outer module support profile P ₆ are referred to below as "lower photovoltaic modules". Furthermore, all photovoltaic modules that are not lower photovoltaic modules are referred to below as "upper photovoltaic modules". Rainwater that runs off one of the upper photovoltaic modules thus reaches the partial area 12a of the inner module support profile on which the respective photovoltaic module is supported with its lower longitudinal edge or the corresponding edge area (in the 1 and 2 by the arrows F ₂ , for the module support profile P ₂ and the arrows F ₃ for the module support profile P ₃ schematically indicated). At least part of the rainwater that I collects on the partial area 12a of the corresponding inner module support profile is therefore in the above based on 4 described in the manner described above into the interior I of the module support profile; if necessary, excess water that cannot be absorbed by this module support profile will flow further onto the photovoltaic modules below, where it will mix with the rainwater hitting it and from there flow downwards.

The outer module support profiles P ₁ , P ₆ are in the embodiments of the 1 - 2 identical to the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ . This has the advantage that, on the one hand, only one type of module support profile needs to be produced for these embodiments, which simplifies the production process, and, on the other hand, during assembly, no attention needs to be paid to which module support profile is mounted at which point, which simplifies the assembly process. In this case, rainwater can also be collected, distributed and drained by the outer module support profiles P ₁ , P ₆ , even if this may be less efficient than the inner module support profiles. In alternative embodiments, the upper outer module support profile P ₁ and/or the lower outer module support profile P ₆ can also have a different shape that does not necessarily have the features of the inner module support profiles as described with reference to 4 In embodiments, a gutter (rain gutter) can also be installed below the lower outer module support profile (not shown), from which rainwater flowing over the lower edge of the lower photovoltaic modules can be efficiently collected and drained away in a controlled manner.

Are - unlike the versions of the 1 to 3 - the photovoltaic modules M are not inclined relative to the ground surface 70 - in other words, the photovoltaic modules M are each arranged essentially parallel to the ground surface 70, and the module plate consisting of the entirety of the photovoltaic modules M consequently forms a type of "flat roof" -, then the gravitational force for rainwater on a photovoltaic module to flow off in a specific direction is not sufficient, but in this case the rainwater will still flow off the photovoltaic module - in principle, i.e., apart from any unevenness, from a central area of the photovoltaic module towards its edges - if enough rainwater has collected on the photovoltaic module. Rainwater that reaches module support profiles via these edges is then absorbed and collected by the inner module support profiles - and if appropriate, if these are suitably designed, also by the outer module support profiles - in the manner described above, and released again through the outlet openings of the module support profiles.

As in connection with 4 As described above, the rainwater initially collects in the interior areas I of the inner module support profiles before it then exits the module support profile through their outlet openings A. Depending on whether an outlet opening is a connection opening to which a pipe of a pipe system is connected that supplies the rainwater emerging from the outlet opening to suitable containers, or whether it is a drip opening through which water simply drips down from the module support profile P, the water collected by the module support profile P can then be stored (see 6 ) or can be used directly for the controlled irrigation of the floor area 70 beneath the framework or the photovoltaic system.

In the 1 - 3 all outlet openings A of all module support profiles are designed as drip openings. Water that comes out of these drip openings will drip down from the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ onto the floor surface 70 (note that in the embodiments shown, the outer module support profiles P ₁ , P ₆ are designed identically to the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ; see above), so that in this way the floor surface 70 under the framework or the photovoltaic system 1 is watered (in the 1 and 2 schematically indicated by the drops T ₂ , T ₃ , T ₄ , T ₅ , T ₆ , which drip from the module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ and P ₅ respectively). The irrigation of the floor area 70 does not take place evenly, but in such a way that the intensity of the irrigation is maximum in the areas below a module support profile (since, for example, the drops T ₂ fall predominantly in the area below the module support profile P ₂ , the drops T ₃ predominantly in the area below the module support profile P ₃ etc.) and is minimal in areas that are located (with reference to the y-direction) in the middle between two adjacent module support profiles (and in which, depending on the design, no irrigation takes place at all). In other words, by arranging the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ in the framework, the irrigation (sprinkling) of the floor area 70 beneath the photovoltaic system 1 can be controlled in a targeted manner. In other words, the irrigation (sprinkling) of the floor area 70 beneath the photovoltaic system 1 has an intensity profile with maxima in areas directly beneath the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ (these areas are also referred to below as “drip edges”, with each of the module support profiles creating a “drip edge”) and with minima in areas that are located (with reference to the y-direction) in the middle between two adjacent module support profiles. Since the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ are also arranged equidistantly here, this intensity profile below the photovoltaic system 1 is periodic or essentially periodic in the y-direction.

For many plant species, it has been shown to be beneficial to avoid direct irrigation of the plants (i.e. wetting the above-ground parts of the plants such as their leaves, trunks or stems and, where appropriate, especially their fruit) and instead to direct or drip the water into or onto an area of soil around the plants in question, under which the plant's root system is located. In this way, damage to the above-ground parts of the plants can be avoided, such as rot and/or fungal attack in fruit species (see above).

Therefore, for many plant species it is advantageous to plant the plants below the framework between the drip edges, ie in the areas of the soil surface 70 where the minima of the intensity profile of the irrigation are located. This is exemplified in 3 Rainwater that flows through the gaps Z ₁ , Z ₂ , Z ₃ , Z ₄ onto the corresponding inner module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ and through their respective inlet openings E (see 2 and 4A , 4B) into the respective interior areas I (see 4A) then drips through the slot-shaped outlet openings A arranged at regular intervals along the entire length of the respective module profile (see 4C ) downwards onto the ground surface 70. Three rows R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ of plants are now grown on the ground surface 70, with these rows R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ extending below the module plate of the photovoltaic system 1, each parallel to the x-direction. The rows R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ are not placed on the drip edges (the areas C ₁ , C ₂ , C ₃ , C ₄ below the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ and P ₄ respectively; see above), but rather such that they are located in areas next to at least one of the drip edges C ₁ , C ₂ , C ₃ , C ₄ , with the plants being placed such that at least part of their root system in the ground surface 70 extends into the area of at least one of the drip edges C ₁ , C ₂ , C ₃ , C ₄ . Thus, the water from the outlet openings A of the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ does not primarily irrigate the above-ground part of the plants, but the water is - at least for the most part - directed past the above-ground parts of the plant to their respective root system.

In embodiments of the framework according to the invention, the module support profiles can be designed in such a way that the flow through the outlet openings A (i.e., in particular in the case of drip openings, the volume of water dripping per unit of time) can be regulated. This will be explained below using the 5 illustrated. The 5 Module support profile P shown essentially corresponds to the one already described above in the context of 4 In addition, however, the module support profile P in 5 a slider 90. The slider 90 has a flat bar which extends - at least approximately - over the entire length of the module support profile P and in whose inner region I is movably mounted on the inside of the second profile region 16 (in and against the X direction). In the Y direction, the slider 90 can cover the entire inside of the second profile region 16 between the third profile region 14 and the fourth profile region 15 (or the partial region 15a of the fourth profile region 15). The slider 90 can protrude from at least one of the end openings of the module support profile P so that it can be manually moved at these protruding ends. Rainwater 86 which reaches the inner region I of the module support profile P through the inlet openings E does not collect in this embodiment on the inside of the second profile region 16, but rather (in the Z direction) above the slider 90.

In particular, the slider 90 has openings at regular intervals - hereinafter referred to as control openings A' - which correspond to the outlet openings A of the module support profile P have a corresponding shape and are arranged such that in at least one position of the slide control 90 relative to the module support profile P, the control openings A' are each positioned exactly (in the Z direction) above the outlet openings A. In this position of the slide control 90, no area or partial area of the outlet openings A is covered by material of the slide control 90, so that water 86 that has collected above the slide control 90 can escape from the module support profile P through the entire area of the outlet openings A. In this position of the slide control 90, the module support profile P is therefore set for maximum outflow from the outlet openings A. 5A illustrates in section how water 86 can escape from an area above the slide control 90, first through a control opening A' and directly afterwards through the outlet opening A located below - as indicated by the arrow - out of the module support profile P.

However, if the slider 90 is moved from the prescribed position in or against the X-direction, a position of the slider 90 relative to the mounting profile P may result, as shown in 5C is shown. 5C shows a longitudinal section through the module support profile P along the line BB in 5A . In this position of the slide control 90, in the X direction opposite the outlet openings A (in 5C shown in dashed lines) so that the latter are partially covered by the material of the slider 90. Only a partial area U of the outlet openings A is located in the area of the control openings A' and is therefore not covered by the slider 90. In this position, water 86 cannot escape from the inner area I of the module support profile P through the entire area of the external openings A, but only through the partial areas U of the outlet openings A, which are not covered by the slider. The volume of water 86 that can flow through the outlet openings A per unit of time is therefore limited compared to the situation described above, which allows the maximum outflow through the outlet openings A. Water 86 that cannot be discharged through the outlet openings A can in this case be discharged through end openings (see 2 ) from the module support profile P.

In extreme cases, the slider 90 can also be positioned so that the outlet openings A of the mounting profile P are completely covered by the slider 90. This situation is shown in a cross-sectional view in 5B In this case, no more water is released through the outlet openings A and the water may have to be completely discharged through the end openings (see 2 ) from the mounting profile P. This can be useful if, after a long period of rain, the soil of the ground surface 70 beneath the photovoltaic system 1 is already so wet that further watering/sprinkling of the ground surface 70 would have a detrimental effect on the plants growing there.

6 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of the photovoltaic system according to the invention, which schematically illustrates how the framework can be combined or supplemented with various positioned collecting containers for storing rainwater as well as with a pipe system and an irrigation system. The framework comprises support struts S ₁₁ , S ₁₂ , cross struts Q ₁ and module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ , which can be arranged, for example, as in connection with the 1 - 3 The photovoltaic system 1 in turn comprises this framework as well as a large number of photovoltaic modules M, which are supported on the framework, as also described in the context of the 1 - 3 explained.

In the embodiment shown, the framework or the photovoltaic system 1 comprises three different collecting containers 100, 110, 120. The framework also comprises a line system, which here has the lines 201, 211 and 221, and an irrigation system, which here has the irrigation lines 213, 203 and 223. Each of the lines 201, 211, 221 and each of the irrigation lines 213, 203, 223 can be designed as a hose or pipe.

A first collecting container 100 is designed as a barrel or drum into which water can be filled from above and which is positioned slightly higher than the floor surface 70 on a base 101. In the example, the line 201 is connected to an outlet opening or an end opening of the second module support profile P ₂ and is designed to transport water from there to the first collecting container 100. Since the collecting container 100 is located below the second module support profile P ₂ , no drive means (e.g. pump) is necessary for transporting the water through the line 201, since the water is simply guided through the line 201 by the force of gravity. The collecting container 100 also has a discharge device 202 for discharging water from the collecting container 100, to which the irrigation line 203 is connected. The discharge device 202 can be designed to regulate the outflow from the collection container 100; for example, the discharge device 202 can be a water tap. The irrigation line 203 is further designed to direct water from the collection container 100 to a suitable destination for irrigation. In the example shown, the irrigation line 203 is made of laid to guide water into an area of the ground surface 70 between the plants R ₂ and R ₃ , under which the root system W ₂ or W ₃ of these plants is located. Since the collecting container 100 is positioned on a base 101 slightly elevated above the ground surface 70, the force of gravity is again sufficient to transport the water from the collecting container 100 to the irrigation destination. Thus, neither a drive means (such as a pump) is necessary here for introducing the rainwater collected by the module support profile P ₂ into the collecting container 100, nor a drive means for discharging and transporting the water stored in the collecting container 100 to the irrigation destination.

A second collecting container 110 is designed as a water basin embedded in the floor area 70. A line 211 is designed to conduct water from the first module support profile P ₁ to the second collecting container 110. The functionality of the line 211 essentially corresponds to that of the previously described line 201. Since the second collecting container 110 is located below the connection of the line 210 to the module support profile P ₁ , no pump is required here either to feed the rainwater collected by the first module support profile P ₁ to the second collecting container 110. In the example, a tree 400 is to be watered with the water from the second collecting container 110. For this purpose, an irrigation line 213 leads from the second collecting container 110 to the destination of the irrigation, which thereby provides a floor area 410 around the trunk of the tree 400. However, since the water in the second collecting container 110, which is designed as a water basin embedded in the ground, is approximately at the same height as the target location, it is not possible to direct the water from the second collecting container 110 to the target location 410 by the force of gravity. It is therefore necessary to equip the irrigation line 213 with a drive means 310, such as a pump, in order to supply the water from the second collecting container 110 to the target location. The drive means 310 can be operated with electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules M of the photovoltaic system 1. For this purpose, the drive means 310 can be connected to one of the photovoltaic modules M by an electrical line 312. In embodiments, for the purpose of operating the drive means 310, electrical energy initially generated by the photovoltaic system 1 can also be temporarily stored in an accumulator (not shown), which is then supplied to the drive means 310 when required. In this way, the operation of the drive means 310 is independent of the intensity of the sunlight scattered onto the photovoltaic modules M at a given time.

In the example, a third collecting container 120 is again designed as a barrel or drum, which is positioned higher up on a hill compared to the photovoltaic system 1. The third collecting container 120 is intended for watering the root system W ₁ (target location) of a plant R _1. For this purpose, an irrigation line 223 leads from a discharge device 222 (faucet) of the third collecting container 120 to the target location. Since the collecting container 120 is installed very high up compared to the target location, the water can be transported over correspondingly long distances from the collecting container 120 to the target location without the irrigation line 223 having to be equipped with a drive means (pump). On the other side, the collecting container 120 is located significantly above the module support profile P ₆ , with whose collected rainwater it is filled, so that here it is therefore necessary to provide the supply line 221 connected to the module support profile P ₆ , which is designed to supply the water from the module support profile P ₆ to the third collecting container 120, with a drive means 320 (pump). The supply of the drive means 320 with electrical energy can be carried out analogously to the supply of the drive means 310 of the irrigation line 213 described above. For this purpose, the drive means 320 can be connected to one of the photovoltaic modules M by an electrical line 322.

The 1 - 6 can also be briefly summarized as follows. Rainwater which rains down on the module plate runs to the next module support profile P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ , P and initially reaches the profile interior I through inlet openings E on the upper side 12 of the profile P and is then drained via outlet openings A - for example oblong holes or slots on the underside or at the lower bending radius of the module support profile P - in the direction of the longitudinal axis x of the photovoltaic system 1, concentrated on the plants R ₁ , R ₂ , R ₃ planted below the module plate. The intensity of the drip volume can be limited by the size of the outlet openings A. In some embodiments, excess water is directed to the vertical support struts, for example, and then reaches collection containers, such as above-ground collection containers, via their hollow profile. If required, rainwater can be channeled to plants R ₁ , R ₂ and R ₃ via these - provided the collection containers are suitably arranged in designs without the use of pumps. This solution is particularly suitable for growing crops that can otherwise be irrigated and also for solar concepts with growth of flowering seeds and grasses under the modules as well as maintenance through extensive grazing, for example by sheep.

In alternative embodiments, outlet openings A in the module support profiles P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ are omitted and the rainwater is collected directly in collecting containers (for example above-ground collecting containers) and directed to the plants when required. This solution is particularly suitable for cultivated plants that are to be irrigated by drippers in the ground area.

Finally, illustrated 7 schematically shows a method for collecting and draining water with a photovoltaic system. According to the invention, a photovoltaic system is provided in a first step S1. The photovoltaic system is in particular a photovoltaic system according to the invention according to the second aspect described above. For example, this can be photovoltaic system 1 as described above in connection with the 1 - 3 or 6 has been described. The photovoltaic system 1 is preferably located outdoors. In a second step S2, water droplets 82 falling on the photovoltaic system 1 are now collected by at least one of the photovoltaic modules M. Then, in a third step S3, the previously collected water is guided to at least one of the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ by means of at least one of the photovoltaic modules M that collected water in step S2. Then, in a fourth step S4, the water that was guided to at least one of the inner module support profiles P ₂ , P 3 , P ₄ , P ₅ in the preceding step S3 is introduced into the inner region I of the at least one inner module support profile P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ through inlet openings E located in the respective first profile _region 12. In the inner region I of the at least one inner module support profile P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , into which water was introduced in the fourth step S4, the water is now passed on to at least one outlet opening A located in the second profile region 16 of the respective inner module support profile P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ and/or to at least one end opening O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ of the respective inner module support profile P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ (fifth step S5). Finally, as a sixth step S6, the water is drained from the at least one outlet opening A and/or from the at least one end opening O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ , to which water was passed on in the preceding fifth step S5.

List of reference symbols

1

Photovoltaic system

12

first profile area

14

third profile area

15

fourth profile area

15a

Part of the fourth profile area

16

second profile area

18

slot

60, 62

Diagonal bracing

40

Screws

42

Projections

46

Screw fastening

50

Bracing

70

Floor area

80

Cloud

82

Rain

84, 86

Rainwater

90

Slider

100, 110, 120

Collection containers

101

base

201, 211, 221

cables

202, 222

Discharge facilities

203, 213, 223

Irrigation pipes

310, 320

Drive means (pumps)

312, 322

electrical connections

400

Tree

410

Floor area

A

Outlet openings

A'

Control openings

B-B

Cutting plane

C1, C2, C3, C4

Drip edges

Δ

Distance

E

Inlet openings

F2, F3

Arrows

h1, h2

Heights

θ

Tilt angle

I

Interior

K1, K2

Edges or edge areas

K131, K221, K222

Edges or edge areas

M, M1, M2

Photovoltaic modules

M11, M12, M21, M22, M23, M13, M15

Photovoltaic modules

O21, O31

End openings

P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6

Module support profiles

Q1, Q2, Q3

Cross braces

R1, R2, R3

Plants / Plant Rows

S11, S21, S31, S21, S22, S42, S52, S62, S92

Support struts

T, T'

drops

T2, T3, T4, T5, T6

drops

U

Sub-area

V1, V2

virtual levels

W1, W2, W3

Root system

x, y, z

Axes of a Cartesian coordinate system

X, Y, Z

Axes of a Cartesian coordinate system

Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4

Spaces

Claims (25)

A framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules (M) and for collecting and draining rainwater (82), comprising: a plurality of module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ ); and a mounting device for supporting the module support profiles, wherein the plurality of module support profiles comprises a first outer module support profile (P ₁ ), a second outer module support profile (P ₆ ) and one or more inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ); wherein the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) are arranged between the first outer (P ₁ ) module support profile and the second outer module support profile (P ₆ ); wherein each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) is a hollow profile or a slotted hollow profile which has a first profile region (12) and a second profile region (16) which is opposite the first profile region (12); wherein, for each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ), the first profile region (12) has a plurality of inlet openings (E) and is suitable for supporting edges or edge regions (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of photovoltaic modules (M); wherein, for each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ), the second profile region (16) has at least one outlet opening (A) and/or the respective module support profile has an end opening (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ) at one or both of its ends; and wherein the photovoltaic modules (M) can be mounted on the support structure in such a way that at least some of the inlet openings (E) are not or only partially covered by photovoltaic modules (M). Studwork according to Claim 1 , wherein the module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ ) are arranged such that the photovoltaic modules (M) can each be supported between two module support profiles; and wherein at least one edge or an edge region of a photovoltaic module (M) rests on the first profile region (12) of one of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) and an opposite edge or an opposite edge region of this photovoltaic module rests on the first profile region of a further inner module support profile or on one of the outer module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₆ ). Studwork according to Claim 2 , wherein the photovoltaic modules (M) can be mounted on the framework in such a way that, for each pair of photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) which are arranged opposite one another with respect to an inner module support profile (P), the respective photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) rest on the corresponding inner module support profile (P) at a distance from one another with respect to a direction (Y) transverse to the longitudinal direction (X) of the inner module profile (P); and wherein the inlet openings (E) of the inner module support profile (P), which are located between the corresponding photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) in the longitudinal direction (X) of the inner module support profile (P), are each located at least partially between the opposite edges or opposite edge regions (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of the respective photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) in a direction (Y) transverse to the longitudinal direction (X) of the module support profile (P). Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 3 , wherein the module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ ) are arranged parallel to one another and are each aligned parallel to a first direction (x); and wherein preferably the distance between two adjacent module support profiles is identical for each pair of adjacent module support profiles. Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 4 , wherein the module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ ) are arranged on a first virtual plane (V ₁ ); and wherein preferably the first virtual plane (V ₁ ) is arranged opposite a second virtual plane (V ₂ ), which orthogonal to the direction of the gravitational force, has an inclination angle (θ). Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 5 , wherein a gutter for collecting rainwater is attached to at least one of the outer module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₆ ). Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 6 , wherein the mounting device further comprises a plurality of cross struts (Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ ); and wherein at least some of the module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₅ ) are supported on at least a portion of the cross struts (Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ ) or are mounted on at least a portion of the cross struts (Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ ). Studwork according to Claim 7 , wherein the mounting device further comprises a plurality of support struts (S ₁₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₃₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₂₂ , S ₄₂ , S ₅₂ , S ₆₂ , S ₉₂ ); wherein the support struts (S ₁₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₃₁ , S ₂₁ , S ₂₂ , S ₄₂ , S ₅₂ , S ₆₂ , S ₉₂ ) are designed to be placed on a floor surface (70) or to be anchored in the floor or are placed on the floor surface (70) or anchored in the floor, and wherein the cross struts (Q ₁ , Q ₂ , Q ₃ ) are each supported on one, two or more support struts or are mounted on one, two or more support struts. Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 8th , further comprising: a pipe system (201, 211, 221) and at least one collecting container (100, 110, 120) for collecting rainwater; wherein at least some of the outlet openings (A) or at least one of the end openings (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ) are realized as connection openings which are provided for connection to the pipe system (201, 211, 221); wherein the connection openings are connected to the at least one collecting container (100, 110, 120) via the pipe system (201, 211, 221); and wherein the pipe system (201, 211, 221) is suitable for conducting rainwater from the at least one connection opening to the at least one collecting container (100, 110, 120). Studwork according to Claim 9 , wherein the line system (201, 211, 221) has one or more first pumps (320); wherein the first pumps (320) are each designed to pump water from one or more connection openings to one or more collecting containers (120). Studwork according to Claim 9 or 10 , further comprising an irrigation system (203, 213, 223), wherein the one or more collection containers (100, 110, 120) are each connected to the irrigation system (203, 213, 223); and wherein the irrigation system (203, 213, 223) is suitable for directing water located in the collection container or containers (100, 110, 120) to predefined destinations. Studwork according to one of the Claims 9 until 11 , with at least some of the collection containers installed above ground level. Studwork according to Claim 11 or 12 , wherein the irrigation system (100, 110, 120) has one or more second pumps (310); wherein the second pumps (310) are each designed to pump water located in the collection containers (110) from the collection containers (110) through the irrigation system (203, 213, 223) to the predefined destination locations (410). Studwork according to one of the Claims 1 until 13 , wherein at least some of the outlet openings (A) are designed as drip openings. Studwork according to Claim 14 , wherein a slide regulator is introduced (90) into at least one inner module support profile (P); wherein the slide regulator (90) has an elongated bar with control openings (A'); wherein the slide regulator (90) is mounted in the module support profile (P) on the second profile region (16) so as to be displaceable in the longitudinal direction (X); and wherein the arrangement and shape of the control openings (A') on the bar is preferably congruent with that of the drip openings in the second profile region (16) of the module support profile (P). Photovoltaic system (1) suitable for collecting and draining rainwater (82), comprising: a set of photovoltaic modules (M); a support structure for supporting the set of photovoltaic modules (M) and for collecting and draining rainwater (82) according to one of the Claims 1 until 15 , wherein each of the photovoltaic modules (M) is mounted between two module support profiles, wherein an edge or an edge region of the photovoltaic module rests on the first profile region (12) of one of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) and an opposite edge or an opposite edge region of the photovoltaic module rests on the first profile region of a further inner module support profile or on one of the outer module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₆ ); and wherein, for each pair of photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) which are arranged opposite one another with respect to an inner module support profile (P), the respective photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) rest on the corresponding inner module support profile (P) at a distance from one another with respect to a direction (Y) transverse to the longitudinal direction (X) of the inner module profile (P), wherein the inlet openings (E) of the inner module support profile (P), which are located between the corresponding photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) in the longitudinal direction (X) of the inner module support profile (P), are each located at least partially between the opposite edges or opposite edge regions (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of the respective photovoltaic modules (M ₁ , M ₂ ) in a direction (Y) transverse to the longitudinal direction (X) of the module support profile (P). Photovoltaic system according to Claim 16 , where the photovoltaic modules (M) are bifacial glass-glass modules. Photovoltaic system according to Claim 16 or 17 , provided that the claim of Claim 10 the one or more first pumps (320) are each electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules (M) or are electrically connected to an accumulator which is electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules (M); and/or, where the claim of Claim 13 the one or more second pumps (310) are each electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules (M) or are electrically connected to an accumulator which is electrically connected to the photovoltaic modules (M). Method for collecting and draining water with a photovoltaic system, comprising the following steps: a) providing a photovoltaic system (1) according to one of the Claims 16 until 18 , wherein the photovoltaic system (1) is preferably located in the open air; b) collecting water drops (82) falling on the photovoltaic system (1) by at least one of the photovoltaic modules (M); c) directing the collected water by means of at least one of the photovoltaic modules (M) which collected water in step b) to at least one of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ); d) introducing the water which was directed to at least one of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) in step c) into the inner region (I) of the at least one inner module support profile (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) through inlet openings (E) located in the respective first profile region (12); e) forwarding, in the inner region (I) of the at least one inner module support profile (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ), into which water has been introduced in step d), to at least one outlet opening (A) located in the second profile region (16) of the respective inner module support profile (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) and/or to at least one end opening (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ) of the respective inner module support profile (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ); f) draining the water from the at least one outlet opening (A) and/or from the at least one end opening (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ) to which water has been forwarded in step e). Method for irrigating a ground surface with a photovoltaic system, comprising the steps of the method according to Claim 19 , wherein in step a) the provision of the photovoltaic system (1) takes place in particular on the ground surface (70) to be irrigated; wherein in step e) the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening (A); and wherein in step f) the water falls from the at least one outlet opening (A), to which water was passed on in step e), onto the ground surface (70). Method for storing water with a photovoltaic system, comprising the steps of the method according to Claim 19 , wherein the photovoltaic system (1) provided in step a) comprises in particular a framework according to Claim 9 or one of the Claims 10 until 15 , provided that they are on Claim 9 based; wherein in step e) the water is passed on to at least one outlet opening (A) and/or one end opening (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ), which is implemented as a connection opening; and wherein the method for storing water with a photovoltaic system comprises the following further step: g) conducting the water through the line system (201, 211, 221) from the at least one outlet opening into the at least one collecting container (100, 110, 120). Method for storing water with a photovoltaic system according to Claim 21 , wherein the photovoltaic system (1) provided in step a) comprises in particular a framework according to Claim 10 or one of the Claims 11 until 15 , provided that they are on Claim 10 based; wherein in step g) the conduction of the water through the pipe system (201, 211, 221) is effected or supported by one or more first pumps (320); and wherein preferably the energy for operating the one or more first pumps (320) is provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules (M). Method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system, comprising the steps of the method according to Claim 21 or 22 , wherein the photovoltaic system (1) provided in step a) comprises in particular a framework according to Claim 11 or one of the Claims 12 until 15 , provided that they are on Claim 11 based; wherein the method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system comprises the following further step: h) directing the water, through the irrigation system (203, 213, 233), from the at least one collecting container (100, 110, 120) to the predefined destination or destinations. Method for irrigation with a photovoltaic system according to Claim 23 , wherein the photovoltaic system (1) provided in step a) comprises in particular a framework according to Claim 12 or one of the Claims 13 until 15 , provided that they are on Claim 12 based; wherein in step h) the conduction of the water through the irrigation system (203, 213, 233) is effected or assisted by one or more second pumps (310); and wherein preferably the energy for operating the one or more second pumps (310) is provided by electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic modules (M). Use of a framework for supporting a set of photovoltaic modules (M) as a device for collecting and draining rainwater (82), the framework comprising: a plurality of module support profiles (P ₁ , P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ , P ₆ ); and a mounting device for supporting the module support profiles, the plurality of module support profiles comprising a first outer module support profile (P ₁ ), a second outer module support profile (P ₆ ) and one or more inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ); the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) being arranged between the first outer (P ₁ ) module support profile and the second outer module support profile (P ₆ ); wherein each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ) is a hollow profile or a slotted hollow profile which has a first profile region (12) and a second profile region (16) which is opposite the first profile region (12); wherein, for each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ), the first profile region (12) has a plurality of inlet openings (E) and is suitable for supporting edges or edge regions (K ₁ , K ₂ ) of photovoltaic modules (M); wherein, for each of the inner module support profiles (P ₂ , P ₃ , P ₄ , P ₅ ), the second profile region (16) has at least one outlet opening (A) and/or the respective module support profile has an end opening (O ₂₁ , O ₃₁ ) at one or both of its ends; and wherein the photovoltaic modules (M) can be mounted on the support structure in such a way that at least some of the inlet openings (E) are not or only partially covered by photovoltaic modules (M).

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