EP0075509B1 - Hinged girder composed of light metal sections - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to frames intended to support the roofing or roofing of a construction.

The present invention relates more particularly to a frame made up of light alloy profiled elements, of adjustable slopes, intended to support the cover formed by different non-coplanar, but intersecting sections, of a construction.

It is known to thus produce roof support structures having in particular valleys (re-entrant angle formed by the meeting of the inclined surfaces of two roof spaces), hip joints (salient angle), using various materials, in particular wood or steel.

Whatever the material used, it turns out to be necessary to carry out particular and complex machining on the site, so as to adapt the shape and the angles of the parts constituting the frame, to the different slopes of the roof. The errors inherent in all constructions, indeed prohibit the realization of such frames in the workshop. Generally, wooden systems are assembled on site using dowels, and steel systems by welding or bolting.

In addition, in order to ensure the waterproofing of the roof, in particular when the latter has at least one valley, it proves necessary to use additional parts conventionally formed from zinc sheets, or sealing flaps , which must be cut, folded and adapted according to each slope and length of roof, therefore always on site. In a good number of cases, it is also essential, in order to obtain a correct seal, to pass a protective coating over the roof.

It is understood, of course, that such an on-site construction of said frames, on the one hand, turns out to be particularly long, on the other hand, requires specialized personnel. In addition, such a technique prohibits any standardization in the production of structural elements, since these must be adapted according to each case.

The present invention provides a solution to the problems previously posed, by proposing a new type of frame adaptable to all types of roofing or building roof, formed of different non-coplanar sections, and whatever the slope thereof, which is both simple, robust and economical, while ensuring perfect waterproofing of the roof, and which offers the possibility of being installed quickly by non-specialized personnel.

According to a characteristic of the present invention, the frame comprises at least one elongated base profile forming an edge between two of said sides of the cover, and composed of a central core on either side of which are arranged, in the direction of the length, of the longitudinal articulation elements, called the first articulation, of the support profiles supporting the elements of the cover and each provided with a longitudinal articulation element, complementary to those of the base profile, with one of which it is intended to come into engagement to form said first articulation, a first support part provided with at least one transverse articulation element, called second articulation, at least a second support part provided with a transverse articulation element , complementary to that of the first support piece, with which it is intended to come into engagement to form said second articulation, said base profile being fixed to this second pi This type of support in a position such that the axes of the longitudinal articulation elements and of the transverse articulation elements are oblique to each other and in a common plane.

We understand that thus, the first support piece being immobilized relative to the construction, and the base profile being secured to the second support piece, it suffices to engage the second support piece on the first, by cooperation of transverse articulation elements, and to pivot the base profile / second support piece assembly in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the transverse articulation known as the second articulation, said plane being preferably vertical, so as to determine the position and slope of said base profile. Then, said support profiles, supporting the elements of the cover, are positioned on the base profile by cooperation of the longitudinal articulation elements in a position corresponding to the slope of each section of the roof, defined by pivoting of said profiles d support around the axis of the longitudinal articulation known as the first articulation.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises at least one support profile provided longitudinally with at least one third articulation element whose axis, in the assembled position of the support profile, is located in a plane containing the axis of the transverse articulation elements, at least one support profile provided longitudinally with an articulation element which is complementary to that of the support profile, with which it is intended to come into engagement to form said third articulation. Thus, the rafters supporting the cover elements are supported at one of their ends on a support profile cooperating with a support profile, and at the other end, on a support profile cooperating with a base profile .

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the first support piece is fixed to a support profile.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the first support part is formed of a portion of the support profile, the transverse articulation element of this first support part being formed of a portion of the articulation element of the support profile.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, relating to a roofing structure of the type comprising in particular a hipbone, the base section has, in cross section, an upper central web and two parallel fabrics connected to the upper central web by at least an element which is transverse to them, said longitudinal articulation elements being supported at the lower part of each of the parallel fabrics.

According to another characteristic of the present invention concerning a roofing structure of the type comprising in particular a hipbone, the base section has, in cross section, a central core and a fabric connected perpendicularly thereto, said longitudinal articulation elements being supported at the ends of said fabric perpendicular to the central core.

According to another characteristic of the present invention relating to a roofing structure of the type comprising in particular a valley, the base profile has, in cross section, a central core and a canvas inclined in a "V" and fixed symmetrically thereto, said said longitudinal articulation elements being supported at the ends of the canvas inclined in "V".

According to another characteristic of the present invention, there is provided at least one articulation element called the fourth articulation, at the upper part of the central core of the base profile, in the direction of the length, capable of receiving complementary elements. articulation carried by sealing flaps, to form, by mutual engagement, said fourth articulation and support the sealing flaps according to an adjustable slope.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile has a substantially flat face intended to come to bear on a flat and fixed surface of the construction on which it is immobilized, said third articulation element being supported longitudinally at one end of this flat face.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile is of the “angle iron, one of the wings of which forms a substantially flat face intended to come to bear on a flat and fixed surface of the construction on which it is immobilized, and whose the second wing supports longitudinally, at its end, said third articulation element.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile has, in cross section, an upper central core and two parallel fabrics connected to the upper central core by at least one element which is transverse to them, a third articulation element being supported longitudinally at the bottom of each of the parallel fabrics.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile has, in cross section, a central core and a fabric connected perpendicularly thereto, a third articulation element being supported longitudinally at the ends of said fabric perpendicular to the central core .

According to another characteristic of the present invention, there is provided at least one articulation element called the fourth articulation, at the upper part of the central core of the support profile, lengthwise, capable of receiving complementary elements d articulation carried by sealing flaps, to form, by mutual engagement, said fourth articulation and support the sealing flaps according to an adjustable slope.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile has, in cross section, a substantially flat core at one end of which is provided the longitudinal articulation element or the third articulation element.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the support profile is of the “angle” type, one of the wings of which is preferably provided with at least one groove in the shape of a dovetail intended to receive joints of sealing or glazing beads, a longitudinal articulation element or a third articulation element being provided on the outside of the angle iron in the vicinity of the junction between the two wings, and the second wing being intended to receive one end of the rafters.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the first support part has, in cross section, a substantially planar core supporting at one of its ends, said transverse articulation element, the first support part thus having a substantially face plane intended to come to bear on a corresponding face of the support profile on which it is fixed.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the first support part is of the “angle” type, one of the wings of which forms a substantially planar face intended to come to bear on a corresponding and fixed surface of the construction on which it is immobilized, and the second wing of which has, at its end, said transverse articulation element.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the first support part has at least two distinct transverse articulation elements, these elements having coplanar axes, oblique to each other.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the second support part is formed of at least one substantially flat fin on which is intended to be fixed the base profile and on which is disposed said transverse articulation element complementary to that of the first support piece.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the second support piece also comprises a tilted "V" fabric arranged transversely to the fin and on which is intended to bear the inclined fabric in "V of the base profile.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises a set of profiled rafters which rest at their ends, on the support profiles.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the profiled rafters are of the T or L type and have, in cross section, a central core provided, preferably on either side, with at least one tail-shaped groove. dovetail intended to receive seals or glazing beads, said profiled rafters resting, by their base, transverse to the central core, on the support profiles.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises sealing flaps made up of profiles and provided with a middle part allowing the fitting and fixing of the flaps on the upper part of the central webs of the profile base and / or support profile, at least one downwardly inclined wing being provided longitudinally on said middle part.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises sealing flaps consisting of two separate profiled wings, arranged on either side of the central core of the base profile and / or of the support profile. , and covered with a U-shaped profile, preferably made of polymer material, overlapping a portion of the two lateral wings and said central core.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises profiled flaps formed of a first planar section intended to be fixed on a planar surface of the construction, above a support profile, and a second section connected to the base of the first, covering said support profile and the corresponding support profiles.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises profiled sealing flaps comprising articulation elements complementary to the articulation elements provided at the upper part of the base profile and / or of the support profile with which they are intended to come into engagement to form said fourth articulation, said articulation elements being supported longitudinally at the end of a flat section of dimension capable of covering at least the whole of the base profile and / or of the support profile, as well as corresponding support profiles, regardless of the slope of said flat section.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the frame further comprises at least one adjustable stiffening console formed by a central T-shaped section, assembled by its base, to the lower part of the base section and / or of the section support, and whose central core transverse to its base, supports two elements adjustable in travel and angularly with respect to the central core, said adjustable elements comprising at least one bearing surface on which rests a portion of the support profiles and / or rafters.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the longitudinal articulation elements, the transverse articulation elements and the third articulation elements, as well as the elements which are complementary thereto, are formed, on the one hand, by a member profile comprising a bead of generally convex external contour with a constriction, at the level of which, its overall thickness, in cross section, is minimal, on the other hand, of a member comprising it, a housing between its edges, allowing the 'introduction of the bead presented substantially according to its minimum thickness in an insertion position, while after pivoting in the so-called working position, the bead is trapped in the housing, and capable of relative pivoting with respect to this housing .

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the bead of the articulation elements is provided with an axial orifice capable of receiving a screw.

According to another characteristic of the present invention, the longitudinal articulation elements, the transverse articulation elements, the third articulation elements and the elements which are complementary thereto, as well as the support profiles are adapted to the dimensions of modular panels. in order to allow standardization and implementation of these whatever the scenarios encountered.

• la figure 1 représente un mode de réalisation d'une charpente conforme à la présente invention, comportant une noue, et destinée à être installée sur un angle rentrant formé par la rencontre de deux pans de murs,
• la figure 2 représente un second mode de réalisation d'une charpente conforme à la présente invention, comportant un arêtier, et destinée à être installée latéralement sur un mur,
• la figure 3 représente un troisième mode de réalisation d'une charpente conforme à la présente invention, du type comportant un arêtier, et destinée à être installée sur un angle saillant formé par la rencontre de deux pans de murs,
• la figure 4 représente un quatrième mode de réalisation d'une charpente conforme à la présente invention, du type comportant un faîtage duquel partent deux arêtiers,
• la figure 5 représente une vue d'une console réglable de rigidification conforme à la présente invention,
• les figures 6a et 6b représentent respectivement des vues de dessus et latérale d'une première pièce de soutien, selon un premier mode de réalisation,
• les figures 7a et 7b représentent deux vues latérales d'une seconde pièce de soutien,
• les figures 8a et 8b représentent respectivement des vues de dessus et latérale d'une première pièce de soutien, selon un second mode de réalisation,
• les figures 9a et 9b représentent respectivement des vues de dessus et latérale d'une première pièce de soutien, selon un troisième mode de réalisation,
• les figures 10a et 10b représentent respectivement des vues de dessus et latérale d'une première pièce de soutien selon un quatrième mode de réalisation,
• la figure 11 représente une vue en section droite d'un profilé de base ou d'un profilé support, selon une variante de réalisation conforme à la présente invention,
• les figures 12 à 14 représentent des vues de détail du montage des bavettes d'étanchéité sur un profilé de base ou un profilé support selon une variante de réalisation conforme à la présente invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, and with reference to the appended drawings given by way of nonlimiting examples and in which:

• FIG. 1 represents an embodiment of a frame in accordance with the present invention, comprising a valley, and intended to be installed on a re-entrant angle formed by the meeting of two sections of walls,
• FIG. 2 represents a second embodiment of a frame in accordance with the present invention, comprising a hip, and intended to be installed laterally on a wall,
• FIG. 3 represents a third embodiment of a frame in accordance with the present invention, of the type comprising a hipbone, and intended to be installed on a salient angle formed by the meeting of two sections of walls,
• FIG. 4 represents a fourth embodiment of a frame in accordance with the present invention, of the type comprising a ridge from which two hip bones depart,
• FIG. 5 represents a view of an adjustable stiffening console according to the present invention,
• FIGS. 6a and 6b respectively represent top and side views of a first support piece, according to a first embodiment,
• FIGS. 7a and 7b show two side views of a second support piece,
• Figures 8a and 8b show respective ment of top and side views of a first support piece, according to a second embodiment,
• FIGS. 9a and 9b respectively represent top and side views of a first support piece, according to a third embodiment,
• FIGS. 10a and 10b respectively represent top and side views of a first support piece according to a fourth embodiment,
• FIG. 11 represents a cross-section view of a base profile or a support profile, according to an alternative embodiment in accordance with the present invention,
• Figures 12 to 14 show detailed views of the mounting of the sealing flaps on a base profile or a support profile according to an alternative embodiment according to the present invention.

The frame shown in Figure 1, includes a base section 300 which forms an edge between two sides of the cover. This base section 300 has, in cross section, a central core 302, arranged substantially vertically, as well as a fabric 303 inclined in a “V”, upwards, and symmetrically fixed to the central core 302. Elements 301 of longitudinal articulation, able to cooperate with elements 401, 441 which are complementary thereto, to form longitudinal articulations, called first articulations, are supported at the ends of the fabric 303 inclined in a "V _" shape. Said longitudinal articulation elements 301, 401 and 441 will be defined in greater detail in the following description.

Support profiles 400 intended to support the elements of the cover, have, in cross section, a substantially flat core 402, at one end of which is provided an element 401 of longitudinal articulation complementary to said articulation elements longitudinal 301 previously cited, with which they are intended to come into engagement, so as to form said first articulation.

The frame further comprises a first support piece 100 shown in detail in FIGS. 6a and 6b, formed of a profile which has, in cross section, a substantially flat core 102, supporting at one of its ends, a transverse articulation element 101, able to cooperate with an element 201 which is complementary thereto, to form a second articulation. Said transverse articulation elements 101, 201 will be defined with more details in the remainder of this description. The flat core 102 of this first support piece defines a flat face intended to come to bear on a corresponding face of a support profile 500 on which it is fixed. To this end, there is provided on the core 102, a plurality of through holes 103, elongated, intended to receive any suitable fixing means capable of immobilizing said first support piece 100 on the corresponding face of a support profile. 500. As can be seen in this FIG. 1, the frame being installed at a re-entrant angle formed by the meeting of two sections of vertical walls, the angles of the core 102, opposite to the transverse articulation element 101 , are bevelled so as to define two edges 104 inclined substantially by 45 ° with respect to the axis of said transverse articulation. Of course, the particular cutout of the core 102 of this first support piece 100 will be easily adapted as a function of each particular case, as will appear on reading the detailed description which follows, so that the edges of this first piece support as much as possible the shape of the construction.

Similarly, as appears in FIG. 6a, the ends 101 ′ of the transverse articulation element 101 are inclined by 45 ° on the axis of this element, in order to adapt to elements 501 of third articulation, carried by the support profile 500. Here again, the inclination of the ends of the element 101 of transverse articulation is adaptable to each particular case.

The second support piece 200 shown in detail in FIGS. 7a and 7b is provided with a transverse articulation element 201, complementary to that of the first support piece 100, with which it is intended to come into engagement, so as to form the transverse joint, called the second joint. As shown in Figures 1, 7a and 7b, the second support piece 200 is composed of a U-shaped element comprising two fins 202, 202 'plane and parallel, fixed to a planar element 204 which is transverse to them and supports, itself transversely to the fins 202, 202 ′, the element 201 of transverse articulation complementary to that of the first support piece 100. The second support piece also comprises a canvas 203 inclined in a "V" shape and connected at the base of the above-mentioned planar element 204. The cloth 203 inclined in 'V is thus arranged transversely to the fins 202, 202'. This fabric 203 is intended to come to bear under the fabric 303, inclined in a "V" shape, of the base profile 300, as will appear in the following description. The fins 202, 202 ′ are advantageously provided with through orifices 205 intended to receive any suitable fixing devices capable of immobilizing a base profile 300 on the second support piece 200, in cooperation with through orifices 304 formed at the one of the ends of the central core 302 of the base profile. Thus, the central core 302 is introduced between the fins 202, 202 ′ of the second support part, in a position such that the axis of the first articulations formed by longitudinal articulation elements 301 and the elements 401, 441 which their are complementary, or oblique on the axis of the second articulations formed by the elements 101 of transverse articulation and the elements 201 which are complementary to them.

In this position, the fabric 303 inclined in “V of the base profile 300, rests on the fabric 203 of the second support piece.

Thus, the first support piece 100 being immobilized relative to the construction, and the second support piece being rigidly connected to the base profile 300, it suffices to mutually engage the transverse articulation elements 101 and 201 and to make pivot the assembly: second support piece 200 and base profile 300, in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the transverse articulation known as the second articulation, preferably vertical plane, so as to define the inclination of the valley, in this said plan. In this position, the base profile 300 is supported, at its end opposite to that connected to the second support piece, by an appropriate element of the construction. Of course, it is also possible to engage the second support piece 200 on the first support piece 100, then to secure the base section 300 on the second support piece 200.

The base profile 300 having been previously inclined in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the second articulation 101, 201, at an angle of inclination suitable for the valley, the support profiles 400 are then engaged by their element longitudinal articulation 401 on said longitudinal articulation elements 301 of the base profile, and oriented around the axis of the first articulations thus formed, so as to define the slope of each of the sections of the roof.

A support profile 500 of the “angle” type, has a substantially flat wing 503, intended to come to bear on a corresponding flat and fixed surface of the construction, on which this wing 503 is immobilized using any suitable means . The second wing 502 perpendicular to the aforementioned wing 503, supports, at its end, a third articulation element 501, able to cooperate with an articulation element 481 which is complementary to it to form a third articulation. Said third articulation elements 501 and the elements 481 which are complementary thereto, will be described in more detail in the following description.

Of course, it is also possible to design a support profile 500 (not shown) in the form of a substantially flat core 502 intended to come to bear on a corresponding flat and fixed surface of the construction, on which it is immobilized. using any appropriate means, said element 501 of third articulation being supported longitudinally at one end of this planar core 502.

Support profiles 480 of the “angle” type are provided in the vicinity of the junction between the two wings 482, 483 and on the outside of said angle, of an articulation element 481, complementary to said elements 501 of third articulation previously cited, with which it is intended to come into engagement. One of the wings 482 of the angle profile is provided with two grooves 484, 485 in the form of a dovetail, intended to receive seals or glazing beads. The second wing 483 perpendicular to the wing 482, previously cited, is intended to receive one of the ends of the rafters 600, as can be seen clearly in FIG. 1. The other end of the rafters 600 rests on the core 402 substantially plane of the support profile 400 engaged on the base profile 300.

As shown in FIG. 1, the end of the wing 502 of the support profile 500, located in the vicinity of the meeting point of the two sections of walls, can advantageously be provided with through orifices 513 intended to receive any fixing means suitable for rigidly immobilizing the first support piece 100 on said support profile, in cooperation with the orifices 103 provided in the planar core 102 of this first support piece 100.

In addition, as clearly appears in FIG. 1, profiled sealing flaps 760 are arranged above the support profiles 500. These sealing flaps 760 are formed of a first planar section 761 intended to be fixed on a flat and fixed construction surface. This first section 761 is extended by a second section 762 inclined relative to the first, so as to cover at least all of the support profile 500 and the support profiles 480 when said flap is immobilized on the construction. In addition, the first section 761 extends from the side opposite to the second section 762, by a third section 763 inclined to the first, and the second section 762 extends from the side opposite to the first section 761 by a fourth section 764 inclined towards bottom relative to said second section 762.

Finally, in order to perfect the tightness of the frame, at the meeting point between the two flaps 760, an additional flap 790 is provided, formed of a first planar element 791 intended to come to bear on said second sections 762 of the flaps. 760. The outer edges of this planar element 791 form, between them, an angle corresponding to the re-entrant angle formed by the two sections of walls. The planar element 791 is extended downwards by an element 792 formed by different vertical segments inclined to one another. The element 792 is advantageously provided, in its middle part, with a slot 793 allowing the insertion of the central core 302 of the base profile 300.

To install the frame in accordance with Figure 1, it is first necessary to fix the support profiles 500 on the corresponding faces of the construction by their wing 503. Then to secure the first support piece 100 on the lower part of the support profiles 500, using any appropriate means engaged in the orifices 103 and 513. As appears in FIG. 1, the axes of the second and third articulations are then coplanar. Then the base section 300 being secured to the second support piece 200 in a position such that the transverse articulation elements 201 and the longitudinal articulation elements 301 are oblique to each other, to engage this support piece 200 on the first support piece 100 and tilt the base profile 300, in a vertical plane, according to the desired angle of inclination. The profile is then supported and immobilized in position. The support profiles 400 and 480 being respectively arranged on the base profile 300 and on the support profiles 500, it then suffices to have the rafters 600 bearing, on the one hand, on the support profiles 400 (cooperating with the base section 300), on the other hand, on the support sections 480 (cooperating with the support sections 500), in order to position the latter around the axis of said first and third joints. The base profile 300 having, in cross section, an inclined "V" fabric, advantageously plays the role of recuperator of rainwater flowing from the two sides of the roof. The sealing flaps 760 and 790, immobilized above the support profiles 500 ensure perfect sealing of the roof.

Of course, the end of the rafters will be easily machined so as to adapt them to the length and the slope of the roof.

In addition, in order to complete the seal, lateral sealing pieces (not shown) can be placed and immobilized on the frame using screws engaged in the holes provided on the articulation elements, as shown on Figure 1.

We will now describe in detail the second embodiment shown in Figure 2, corresponding to a hipbone attached to a flat wall. Again, the first support piece 120, shown in detail in Figures 10a and 10b, has, in cross section, a substantially flat core 122 supporting at one of its ends and obliquely, an element 121 of articulation transverse able to cooperate with a complementary element 251, in order to form a transverse articulation called second articulation. As shown in Figure 2, the core 122 is in the form of an elongated fin substantially coplanar with the axis of the element 121 of transverse articulation. Again, through holes 123 are provided in the core 122, in order to fix the first support piece 120 to the lower part of a support profile 500, using any suitable means, and in cooperation with orifices 513 provided for in the latter.

Of course, according to an alternative embodiment not shown in the figures, it is also possible to design a first support piece 120 in which the orientation of the core 122 with respect to the articulation element 121 corresponds to the orientation of the core 142 with respect to the articulation element 141, for the first support piece 140 shown in FIG. 8a.

The second support piece 250 is formed by two fins 252, 252 ', planar and parallel, connected to a planar element 254 which is perpendicular to them, and supports transversely to the fins 252, 252', said articulation element 251 complementary to the 'above-mentioned transverse articulation element 121 with which it forms, by engagement, the second articulation. Each of the fins 252, 252 ′ of this second support piece is advantageously provided with through holes 255 making it possible to immobilize a base profile 350 on said second support piece 250, using any suitable means cooperating with orifices 360 provided on the base profile 350 as will be described in more detail in the remainder of this description.

The base profile 350 shown in this FIG. 2 has, in cross section, an upper central core 352 and two parallel fabrics 353, 354 connected to the upper central core 352, by means of an element 355 which is attached to them. transverse. The two parallel fabrics 353, 354 are, moreover, connected to their lower part by a rib 356 advantageously provided with a longitudinal groove 357, in the form of a dovetail. This longitudinal groove 357 is intended to receive, for example, a nut head of complementary shape, making it possible to support any suitable accessories. The aforementioned holes 360 are formed at one end of the fins 353 and 354. When the fins 252, 252 ′ of the second support piece are introduced between the parallel fabrics 353, 354 of the base profile 350, the holes 255 and 360 are substantially aligned. Elements 351 of longitudinal articulation are, moreover, supported longitudinally at the lower part of each of the parallel fabrics 353, 354. Finally, as also appears in FIG. 2, the upper central core 352 extends upwards of the base profile 350, by two wings 358, 359, spaced apart and provided, on their inner surface, with longitudinal ribs, so as to define a vertical groove in which are intended to come into position screws for immobilizing a flap d 'sealing 700 above said base section 350, as will be described in more detail in the following description. The support profiles 440, of the “angle” type, and provided with articulation elements 441 complementary to the longitudinal articulation elements 351 provided on the base profile 350, are strictly identical to the support profiles 481 described opposite. of figure 1.

Likewise, the frame shown in FIG. 2, uses support profiles 500 and support profiles 480, intended to come into engagement by their respective articulation elements 501 and 481, so as to form said third articulation, which are strictly identical to the support profiles 500 and support profiles 480 described with reference to FIG. 1. A sealing flap 700 intended to come to take position above the base profile 350, is formed of a middle part 701 composed of two parallel fabrics 704, 705, connected at their upper part by an element 706 which is transverse to them. The middle part 701 thus defines a channel open towards the bottom, intended to overlap the two wings 358, 359 provided above the upper central core 352 of the base profile 350. Two lateral wings 702, 703 are arranged on the side and on the other side of the middle part 701. These lateral wings 702, 703 are inclined downwards, and of a length such that they cover at least the whole of the base profile 350 and the support profiles 440, when this flap 700 is immobilized above these. According to the embodiment shown in Figure 2, each of the wings 702, 703 is itself formed of two oblique segments, between them, inclined downward, the segment of greatest inclination being disposed on the outside. The element 706 connecting the two parallel wings 704, 705, is advantageously provided with orifices 707 intended to receive fixing screws. Said screws penetrate into the groove provided between the wings 358, 359 of the base profile 350 when the sealing flap 700 is engaged above the latter. It is understood, of course, that the longitudinal ribs provided on the inner face of the wings 358, 359 ensure the immobilization of said screws. In order to eliminate the gutters which may be formed by the orifices 707 provided on the transverse element 706, a profile 710 of cross section in C, advantageously made of polymer material is intended to cover the middle part 701 of the flap 700. A such profile 710 is particularly shown in Figure 3. The profile 710 is immobilized above the middle part 701, when the edges of said profile 710 have exceeded two ribs 708, 709 provided respectively on the outside of the two wings 704 and 705 mentioned above. The two edges of the C-profile come into abutment against these ribs 708, 709 when traction is exerted on the profile 710, upwards. Of course, profiled chevrons 600 are there again, intended to come to bear at their ends, respectively on the support profiles 480 cooperating with the support profiles 500 and on the support profile 440 cooperating with the base profile 350.

In addition, in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, there may be provided a support element 650, of general "L" structure similar to the above-mentioned rafters 600, said support element 650 being secured to the construction, at an inclination by relative to the horizontal, defined by the slope of the roof pan which is adjacent to it.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 2, the support element 650 is formed of a first wing 651 provided with at least one groove 652, 653, in the form of a dovetail, which is intended to receive seals sealing or glazing beads. This first wing 651 is fixed to the construction by any suitable means. The second wing 654, perpendicular to the first wing 651, is intended to support one end of the rafters, it is advantageously provided with a groove 655 in the form of a dovetail open towards the outside of the support element 650, of so as to support all appropriate devices.

Again, the support element 650 can, of course, be replaced by a support profile 500 cooperating with a support profile 481, so as to form a third articulation as has been previously described.

The mounting order of such a frame is quite similar to that described with reference to FIG. 1, an additional flap 700 being however installed above the base profile 350 (as shown in FIG. 2) .

Of course, it is also possible to provide lateral sealing parts immobilized by means of screws engaged in the orifices of the articulation elements.

We will now describe in more detail the third embodiment, shown in Figure 3, corresponding to a frame immobilized at a salient angle formed by the meeting of two sections of walls.

The first support piece 140 shown in detail in Figures 8a and 8b is formed of two elongated fins 142, 142 'forming between them an angle corresponding to the salient angle formed by the meeting of the two sections of walls. The part common to the two elongated wings 142, 142 ′ supports said transverse articulation element 141 able to cooperate with an articulation element 251 which is complementary thereto, to form the transverse articulation, called second articulation. Again, each of the elongated wings 142, 142 'is provided with through holes 143, 143', allowing the first support piece 140 to be immobilized, using any appropriate means engaged in said holes 143, 143 ' , on at least one support profile 500, similar to the support profiles 500 described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, on which corresponding orifices 513 are provided, in a position such that the second and third articulations are coplanar. The ends 141 'of the transverse articulation element 141 are machined so as to be applied to the articulation elements 501 of the support profit 500. The machining angle of the ends 141' is adaptable to each particular case.

The second support piece 250, as well as the base profile 350, the support profiles 440 cooperating with the latter, and the sealing flap 700 intended to cover said base profile 350 and the support profiles 480 are strictly identical to the corresponding elements described with regard to FIG. 2.

We will now describe the different stages of installation of the frame according to Figure 3. First, it is necessary to fix the flat face 503 of the support profiles 500 on the wall sections. Then, the first support piece 140 is immobilized at the bottom of the sections 500 previously mentioned. The base profile 350 then being rigidly fixed on the second support part 250, this assembly is articulated on the first support part 140, by means of the complementary articulation elements 141 and 251 forming the second articulation. Of course, it is also possible to engage the complementary articulation elements 141 and 251 forming the second articulation, then to secure the base profile 350 to the second support piece 250. The base profile 350 is then pivotally positioned around this second articulation, in a vertical plane according to the desired inclination and supported in this position. The support profiles 440 and 480 are then positioned respectively on either side of the base profile 350 and the support profiles 500. The rafters 600 being arranged to bear at their ends on said support profiles 440 and 480, those -these are pivoted around the first and third joints, at an appropriate angle. It is then necessary to immobilize the flap 700 above the base profile 350, as has been previously described with reference to FIG. 2, and to install sealing flaps similar to the flaps 760 previously described, above support profiles 500.

We will now describe the embodiment shown in Figure 4, corresponding to a frame provided with a ridge from which two hip bones depart.

The first support part 160 shown in detail in FIGS. 9a and 9b, is formed by a planar element 162 provided, at one of its ends, with two transverse articulation elements 161, 161 ′ with coplanar axes, oblique to each other. Again, the planar element 162 will advantageously be provided with through holes (not shown), making it possible to fix the first support part 160 below a support profile 550, using any suitable means cooperating with orifices correspondents formed at the bottom of said support profile 550. In addition, each of the transverse articulation elements 161, 161 'is extended by a protuberance 163, 163' intended to take position in a corresponding recess provided on the articulation elements 551 of the support profile 550, as shown in FIG. 4.

As it appears, moreover, in FIG. 4, two sets of hips similar to the assemblies described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, and each comprising a second support piece 250 on which a base profile 350 cooperating is immobilized, itself even, with two support profiles 440, are articulated by means of articulation elements 251 complementary to said transverse articulation elements 161, carried by the first support part 160, on said aforementioned transverse articulation elements 161.

According to the embodiment of Figure 4, the support profile 550 forms the ridge of the construction, and consists of a profile which has, in cross section, a central core 552, and a fabric 553 connected perpendicularly to the base of the latter, elements 551 of third articulation being supported at the ends of said fabric 553 perpendicular to the central core 552. The fabric 553 advantageously comprises a groove in the form of a dovetail, similar to the groove 357 of the base profile 350, described with reference to FIG. 2. Here again, the dovetail-shaped groove is capable of receiving the head of a bolt supporting all the appropriate accessories. The central core 552 of the support profile 550 is advantageously provided with a longitudinal structure 555 having a cross section in the form of a "C •. This structure is intended to receive a screw. It will thus be possible to easily assemble lateral sealing parts, at the end of said support profile 550, using a screw engaged in the orifice 555. Of course, this orifice 555 may take any suitable form.

In addition, as also appears in FIG. 4, the central core 552 of the support profile 550 can be surmounted by two slightly spaced wings, and provided on their inner surface, with longitudinal ribs, so as to define a groove capable of receiving screws capable of immobilizing a sealing flap 700, positioned above said support profile 550.

However, as shown in FIG. 4, it is also possible to position above the support profile 550 a sealing flap 730 consisting of two separate profiled wings 732, 733, arranged on either side of the central core 552 of the support profile 550, and covered with a profile 731 of general cross-section in a "U" shape, overlapping a portion of the two lateral wings and said central core 552. Each of the profiled wings 732, 733 can be made up of elements similar to the sealing flaps 760 described above. Thus, each of these wings 732, 733 is formed of a first section 734, 735 intended to come into abutment on either side of the central core 552 of the support profile 550, on which they are immobilized using all appropriate fastening means passing through orifices 736, 737, provided respectively in sections 734 and 735, and cooperating with orifices 557 provided in the upper part of the central core 552. Each of said sections 734, 735, is extended, in addition, by two sections 738, 739 and 740, 741, of different inclinations, extending at least over the entire support profile 550 and corresponding support profiles 480, the section of greatest inclination 739, 741 being disposed on the outside of the lower inclination section 738, 740. Finally, the sections 734, 735 are respectively extended upward by two sections 742, 743 slightly inclined thereon. In order to complete the sealing of the flap 730, the two lateral wings 732, 733 being immobilized on either side of the support profile 550, the profile 731 in "U" then overlaps a portion of the two lateral wings 732, 733 as well that said central core 552, of the support profile 550, on which it is immobilized by means of vertical screws engaged in corresponding orifices provided in the upper part of the "U _{" profile} 731, said screws taking position in the groove formed between the two upper lateral wings 555, 556 disposed above the central core 552 of the support profile 550.

It is understood that the sealing flap 730 being produced using two separate profiled wings 732, 733, the inclination of each of the wings will be easily adapted to the slope of the cover on either side of the hip .

Finally, as also appears in FIG. 4, an additional sealing part 780 covers the point of junction and of articulation between the support profile 550 and the two base profiles 350. Of course, the particular shape of this additional sealing piece must be adapted to the structure of the frame. In the present case, the frame being formed by a ridge and two hips starting from the latter, the complementary sealing part 780 has a general triangular pyramidal shape.

Again, the order of mounting of the different elements is similar to that described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Of course, as shown in Figure 4, the end of the rafters 600 will be easily bevelled at an appropriate angle for fit perfectly on the support profiles.

We will now describe in more detail the adjustable stiffening console 800 shown in FIG. 5. This stiffening console 800 is shown immobilized on the underside of a support profile 550. Of course, such a stiffening console 800 could perfectly be fitted on the lower part of the basic profiles 300 or 350 previously defined. The stiffening console 800 is formed of a central generally T-shaped profile, 810, assembled by its base 811 to the lower part of the support profile 550. The central core 812 of the stiffening console, transverse to the base 811 thereof, supports two elements 820, 830 adjustable in travel and angularly with respect to said central core 812. As previously described, the lower fabric 553 of the support profile 550 and the lower fabric 356 of the profile base 350, being advantageously provided with a longitudinal groove in the shape of a dovetail, the central T-shaped section 810, will be easily secured to the support profile 550 or basic profile 350, using any appropriate means, coming in engagement in said aforementioned dovetail groove. The elements 820, 830 of adjustable position on the central core 812 of the central T-profile have a bearing surface 821, 831 on which rests part of the support profiles 480, 440 and rafters 600. To this end , the bearing surface 821, 831 is not strictly planar, but offers a recess in the vicinity of the support profile 550, a recess of a thickness equal to that of the wing 483 of the support profile 480, the upper surface of the wing 483 of this support profile thus being disposed at the level of the upper support surface 821 complementary, so as to provide a strictly planar support surface for the rafters 600. As can be seen in FIG. 5, the adjustable elements 820, 830 have a part 822, 832 transverse to the first parts offering the bearing surface 821, 831. Each of these parts 822, 832 is provided with two arcuate grooves 823, 824 and 833, 834. Likewise, the central core 812 of base profile 810 is provided with additional slots curved 813, 814, 815 and 816 intersect two by two. Threaded systems 840 to 843, of the screw nut type, are introduced into each of the slots provided on said parts 822 and 832, as well as into the corresponding slots 814 to 816. Thus, the fixing system 840 being slightly tightened, it is understood that the adjustable element 820 can be oriented around the axis passing through said fixing means 840. Similarly, the fixing means 841 being slightly tightened, the same element adjustable 820 can pivot slightly around the axis formed by this fixing element 841. The two fixing elements 840 and 841 being loose, this same adjustable element 822 is free of movement and pivoting, with respect to the profiles of base immobilized on the support profile 550. Thus, each of the adjustable elements 820, 830, can be positioned so that the support surface 821, 831 perfectly ensures the continuity of the upper surface of the wings 483 of the support profiles 480.

In the various embodiments which have just been described, there is provided a first support piece 100, 120, 140, 160 independent of the support profiles 500, 550. However, according to another embodiment, the first support piece may be formed of a portion of the support profile 500, 550, the axes of the second and third articulations being combined, and said base profiles 300, 350 then being arranged perpendicular to the support profiles 500, 550.

In addition, it is advantageous that when the first support piece 100, 120, 140, 160, 180 is fixed to the lower part of a support profile 500, 550, the axes of the second and third joints formed respectively by the elements d transverse articulation supported by the first support piece and the third articulation elements supported by the support profile, are coplanar.

Of course, it is also possible to design a frame in accordance with the present invention, in which the support profile 350 has a structure similar to the base profiles 550 previously defined, and conversely the base profile 550 has a structure similar to the support profile 350 described with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

Similarly, it is possible to design a first support piece 100 of the “angle” type, one of the wings of which forms a substantially flat face intended to come to bear on a corresponding fixed surface of the construction, on which it is immobilized. , the second wing having, at its end, said transverse articulation element.

The rafters 600, 650 are advantageously formed from profiles having, in cross section, a general shape in T or L. Said profiled rafters 600, 650 are provided with a central core 601, 651 provided, on both sides for the profiles 600 in T, on the one hand only for profiles 650 in L, of at least one groove 602, 603, 652, 653 in the form of a dovetail, intended for receive gaskets or glazing beads. The base 604, 654 of the profiled rafters 600, 650 transverse to the aforementioned central core 601, 651, and by which the rafters 600, 650 are intended to come to rest on the support profiles 400, 440, 480 is also provided, preferably at its lower part, a longitudinal groove 605, 655 in the form of a dovetail. In addition, the L-shaped profiles can advantageously be fixed to one face of the construction, as has been described with reference to FIG. 2.

We will now describe an alternative embodiment of a profile 380, shown in Figure 11, which can be used both as a base profile, as a support profile. Such a type of profile can therefore replace either the base profiles 300, 350, or the support profiles 500, 550 previously mentioned, or both.

The profile 380, shown in Figure 11, has in cross section a central core 382, and a fabric 383 connected perpendicularly to the base thereof, articulation elements 381 (of first articulation for a base profile, of third articulation for a support profile) being supported at the ends of said fabric 383 perpendicular to the central core 382. The fabric 383 advantageously comprises a groove 386 in the form of a dovetail, similar to the groove 357 of the base profile 350, and to the groove 556 of the support profile 550, previously cited. Again, the dovetail-shaped groove is capable of receiving the head of a bolt supporting all appropriate accessories.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 11, two articulation elements 384, 385, called the fourth articulation, are provided at the upper part of the central core 382 of the profile 380, and on either side of that -this.

These articulation elements 384, 385 are intended to receive additional articulation elements carried by sealing flaps 720 shown in FIGS. 12 to 14, which will be described in more detail in the following description.

The elements 384, 385 of the fourth articulation supported at the upper part of the central core 382 of the profiles 380 have a cross section in "C whose concavity is turned substantially towards the median plane of the profile. The elements 384, 385 thus have a housing delimited by a cylinder sector.

Of course, such an arrangement can be easily transposed to the above-mentioned support profiles 500 of the “angle iron” type which are intended to be fixed to one face of the construction, by providing a single element of fourth articulation at the upper part of the support profile.

FIGS. 12 to 14 show sealing flaps 720 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The sealing flaps 720 comprise articulation elements 722, complementary to the articulation elements 384, 385, supported at the upper part of the central core 382 of the profiles 380, with which they are intended to come into engagement to form the fourth joint. These articulation elements 722 are supported, longitudinally, at the end of a flat section 721 of dimension capable of covering at least all of the base profile and / or of the support profile on which the sealing flaps 720 are installed. , as well as the corresponding support profiles.

Thus, the planar section 721 of the sealing flaps 720 is extended by a second section 723 inclined on the first which supports at its end the articulation element 722 of straight section at "C". This articulation element 722 has a semi-cylindrical envelope with an outside diameter, less than that of the housing defined by the complementary articulation elements 384, 385 supported at the upper end of the core of the base profile or of the support profile. corresponding. In addition, the surface of section 723 facing outward is provided with longitudinal ridges.

Thus, when two sealing flaps 720 are engaged, via their articulation elements 722, at the upper part of a corresponding profile 380 provided with complementary articulation elements 384, 385, the outer faces of said second sections 723 form an open channel upwards provided with longitudinal grooves. Of course, for this purpose, the opening provided between the articulation elements 384 and 385 of the profile 380 must allow the introduction of the two above-mentioned articulation elements 722.

Then, as appears in FIGS. 12 to 14, an elastic element 725, for example made of elastomer, is introduced into the channel thus formed so as to prevent the withdrawal of the sealing flaps 720.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the elastic element 725 comprises a hollow and compressible central body 726, provided laterally with longitudinal ridges complementary to the ridges formed on the second 723 with which they are intended to come into engagement, in order to maintain said position element 725. The central body 726 is extended on both sides by two fins 727, 728 inclined downward, so as to cover the entire channel formed at the top of the profile 380 and to come to rest on the flat sections 721 of the sealing flaps 720.

Thus, the sealing flaps 720 can easily be immobilized at a variable slope, so as to rest on the one hand, on the profile 380 and on the other hand, on the upper part 482 of the support profiles 480. The figures 13 and 14 show two cases of such an arrangement. The slope of the sealing flaps 720 shown in FIG. 14 is greater than that of the sealing flaps shown in FIG. 13, which corresponds to a lower slope of the sections of the roof.

Of course, the elastic elements 725 may take any appropriate form suscep tible to ensure, on the one hand, the maintenance of the sealing flaps 720, on the other hand, to cover the channel formed between the above-mentioned articulation elements 384, 385.

Of course, the longitudinal articulation elements 101, 121, 141, 161, the transverse articulation elements 301, 351 and the third articulation elements 501, 551, as well as the elements 201, 251, 401, 441, 481, which are complementary to them, intended to form by mutual engagement, the first, second and third joints, can be formed of any adjustable structures with conventional pivoting, of the hinge or hinge type. It is the same for the fourth articulation elements 384, 385 supported at the upper part of the central core of the base sections and / or support sections, as well as complementary articulation elements 722 carried by the sealing flaps 720. In accordance with the present invention, however, it proves to be particularly advantageous to provide first, second and third structures 101, 121, 141, 161; 301, 351; 501, 551 and the structures which are complementary to them 201, 251; 401,441; 481 in the form, on the one hand, of a profiled member comprising a bead of generally convex external contour with a constriction, at the level of which, its overall thickness, in cross section, is minimal, on the other hand, d 'A member comprising it, a housing between its edges, allowing the introduction of the bead presented substantially according to its minimum thickness, in a so-called insertion position, while after pivoting in the so-called working position, the bead is trapped in the housing and susceptible to a relative pivoting with respect to this housing. It is thus understood that each of said articulation elements of the first, second and third articulations cooperating with the elements which are complementary thereto, the frame is perfectly immobilized when the base sections 300, 350 as well as the support sections 400, 440 , 480 are pivoted in the so-called working position, in which they support the rafters 600. It is understood that the system according to the present invention allows easy mounting on a site with any length of roof, and whatever the slopes of that -this. It is, in fact, possible to combine the various embodiments which have just been described, so as to form a roofing structure composed, for example, of at least one valley and / or at least one hip and / or at least one ridge. Of course, the respective angles of inclination of the tightening of the bead and the opening of the housing with respect to their support profile will be easily determined by those skilled in the art according to the particular conditions of use and of engagement of said profiles.

In addition, it turns out to be advantageous for the bead of the articulation elements to be provided with an axial orifice capable of receiving a screw. Thus, lateral sealing parts (not shown in the figures) can easily be assembled, at the end of the profiles, using a screw tightened in said orifice. There is shown in the figures this axial orifice in the form of an open star, of course, the latter may however take any suitable form.

All of the profiled parts making up the articulated frame in accordance with the present invention is preferably made of light alloy.

The present invention therefore makes it possible, on the one hand, to easily recover the various mounting errors inherent in each construction, on the other hand, a particularly advantageous architectural adaptation. Such an architectural adaptation finds in particular an immediate application within the framework of the support structures of solar collectors in vogue today. It is, in fact, known that the angle of inclination on the vertical of the solar collectors must be determined as a function of the latitude of the place considered, which prohibits any standardization. The present invention therefore provides an elegant solution to the problem thus posed.

On the other hand, all the parts of the frame in accordance with the present invention, and in particular the longitudinal articulation elements 101, 121, 141, 161, the transverse articulation elements 301, 351, the third articulation elements 501, 551 and the elements 201, 251, 401, 441, 481 which are complementary thereto, as well as the support profiles 400, 440, 480 are adapted to the dimensions of modular panels in order to allow the standardization and the installation of these regardless of the scenarios encountered.

Finally, despite the speed of the installation, the waterproofing of the roof and proper drainage of rainwater are guaranteed.

Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments which have just been described from which one can imagine other forms and other embodiments, without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims (30)

1. Structure intended for supporting the roofing of a construction, in which the said roofing consists of different non-coplanar faces which intersect to form edges, characterised in that it consists of :

- at least one elongate base profile (300, 350) which forms an edge between two of the said faces of the roofing, and comprises a central web (302, 352) on either side of which are positioned, in longitudinal direction, elements (301, 351), for a longitudinal hinge, so called first hinge,

- bearing profiles (400, 440) supporting the elements of the roofing and each one being provided with a longitudinal hinge element (401, 441) complementary to those of the base profile, with one of which the said element is intended to engage to form the said first hinge,

- a first support section (100, 120, 140, 160) provided with at least one element (101, 121, 141, 161) for a transverse hinge, so called second hinge,

- at least one second support section (200, 250), provided with a transverse hinge element (201, 251), complementary to that of the first support section, with which it is intended to engage to form the said second hinge, the said base profile (300, 350) being fixed to this second support section (200, 250) in a position, such that the axis of the longitudinal hinge elements (301, 351 ; 401, 441) and the transverse hinge elements (101, 121, 141, 161 ; 201, 251) are oblique with respect to each other and in a common plane.

2. Structure according to claim 1, characterised in that it comprises :

- at least one support profile (500, 550), provided, longitudinally with at least one element (501, 551) for a third hinge the axis of which, when the support profile is in the assembled position, is located in a plane containing the axis of the transverse hinge elements (101, 121, 141, 161 ; 201, 251),

- at least one bearing profile (480), provided, longitudinally, with a hinge element (481), which is complementary to that of the support profile, with which it is intended to engage to form the said third hinge.

3. Structure according to claim 2, characterised in that the first support section (100, 120, 140, 160, 180) is fixed to a support profile (500, 550).

4. Structure according to claim 2, characterised in that the first support section (100) comprises a portion of the support profile (500, 550), the transverse hinge element (101, 121, 141, 161) of this first support section consisting of a portion of the hinge element (501, 551) of the support profile.

5. Structure intended for supporting the roofing of a construction, in which the said roofing consists of different non-coplanar faces which intersect, according to one of claims 1 to 4, of the type having, in particular, an angle rafter, characterised in that the base profile (350) has, in cross-section, an upper central web (352) and two parallel sheets (353, 354) connected to the upper central web (352) by at least one element (355) which is transverse to them, the said longitudinal hinge elements (351) being supported at the bottom of each of the parallel sheets.

6. Structure intended for supporting the roofing of a construction, in which the said roofing consists of non-coplanar faces which intersect, according to one of claims 1 to 4, of the type having, in particular, an angle rafter, characterised in that the base profile has, in cross-section, a central web (552) and a sheet (553) which is connected perpendicularly to the web (552), the said longitudinal hinge elements (551) being supported at the ends of the said sheet which is perpendicular to the central web.

7. Structure intended for supporting the roofing of a construction, in which the said roofing consists of different non-coplanar faces which intersect, according to one of claims 1 to 4, of the type having, in particular, a valley channel, characterised in that the base profile (300) has, in cross-section, a central web (302) and a sheet (303) inclined in a « V _P and fixed symmetrically to the web (302), the said longitudinal hinge elements (301) being supported at the ends of the sheet which is inclined in a « V .

8. Structure according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterised in that at least one element (384, 385) for an hinge so-called fourth hinge, is provided at the top of the central web of the base profile, in longitudinal direction, suitable for accommodating the complementary hinge elements (722) supported by impervious plates (720), to form, by mutual engagement, the said fourth hinge and to support the impervious plates according to an adjustable incline.

9. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the support profile (500) has a substantially plane face (502) which is intended to rest on a plane, fixed surface of the construction on which it is firmly secured, the said third hinge element (501) being supported longitudinally at one end of this plane face (502).

10. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the support profile (500) is of the « angle iron type, one of the flanges (503) of which, forms a substantially plane face which is intended to rest on a plane fixed surface of the construction on which it is firmly secured, and the second flange (502) of which supports longitudinally, at the end thereof, the said third hinge element (501).

11. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the support profile (550) has, in cross-section, an upper central web and two parallel sheets connected to the upper central web by at least one element which is transverse to them, a third hinge element, being supported longitudinally at the bottom of each of the parallel sheets.

12. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterised in that the support profile (550) has, in cross-section, a central web (552) and a sheet (553) which is connected perpendicularly to the web (552), a third hinge element (551), being supported longitudinally at the ends of the said sheet (553), which is perpendicular to the central web (552).

13. Structure according to one of claims 9 to 12, characterised in that at least one element (384, 385) for an hinge so-called fourth hinge, is provided at the top of the central web of the support profile, in longitudinal direction, and is capable of accommodating complementary hinge elements (722) supported by the impervious plates (720), to form, by mutual engagement, the said fourth hinge and to support the impervious plates according to an adjustable incline.

14. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that the bearing profile (400, 480) has, in cross-section, a substantially plate web (402) at an end of which is provided the longitudinal hinge element (401) or the third hinge element (481).

15. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterised in that the bearing profile (440, 480) is of the « angle iron type, one (442, 482) of the flanges of which is preferably provided with at least one groove (444, 445 ; 484, 485) in the form of a dovetail which is intended to accommodate tight joints or ledges, a longitudinal hinge element (441) or a third hinge element (481) being provided on the exterior of the angle iron in the area of the junction between the two flanges (442, 443 ; 482, 483).

16. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 15, characterised in that the first support section (100, 120, 140, 160) has, in cross-section, a substantially plane web (102, 122, 142, 162), supporting at one end thereof the said transverse hinge element (101, 121, 141, 161), the first support section thus having a substantially plane face, which is intended to rest on a corresponding face of the support profile (500, 550) on which it is fixed.

17. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterised in that the first support section (100) is of the « angle iron type, one of the flanges of which forms a substantially plane face, which is intended to rest on a corresponding fixed surface of the construction on which it is firmly secured, and the second flange (102) of which has, at the ends thereof, the said transverse hinge element (101).

18. Structure according to one of claims 16 and 17, characterised in that the first support section (160) has at least two distinct transverse hinge elements (161, 161'), these elements having coplanar axes which are oblique with respect to each other.

19. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterised in that the second support section (200, 250) consists of at least one substantially plane flange (202, 252) on which the base profile (300, 350) is intended to be fixed and on which is positioned the said transverse hinge element (201, 251) which is complementary to that of the first support section.

20. Structure according to claim 19, characterised in that the second support section (200) also has a sheet (203) which is inclined in a « V », positioned transversely to the flange (202) and on which the sheet (303), inclined in a « V », of the base profile (300) is intended to rest.

21. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, a set of profiled beams (600), the ends of which rest on the bearing profiles (400, 440, 480).

22. Structure according to claim 21, characterised in that the profiled beams (600) are of a « T-shaped type, and have, in cross-section, a central web (601) provided on both sides with a groove (602, 603) in the shape of a dovetail, which is intended to accommodate the tight joints or ledges, the said profiled beams resting by their base (604), which is transverse to the central web (601), on the bearing profiles (400, 440, 480).

23. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, impervious plates (700) consisting of profiles and provided with a median section (701) permitting the plates to interlock and be fixed on the top of the central webs (302, 352, 552) of the base profile (300, 350) and/or the support profile (550), at least one flange (702, 703) which is inclined towards the bottom, being provided longitudinally on the said median section.

24. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, impervious plates (730) consisting of two separate profiled flanges (732, 733), positioned on both sides of the central web (302, 352, 552) of the base profile (300, 350) and/or the support profile (550), and covered by a U-shaped profile (731) which overlaps a portion of the two lateral flanges and the said central web.

25. Structure according to one of claims 2 to 22, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, profiled plates (760), consisting of a first plane section (761), which is intended to be fixed on a plane surface of the construction above a support profile (500), and a second section (762) which is connected to the base of the first (761), covering the said support profile and the corresponding bearing profiles (480).

26. Structure according to one of claims 8 to 22, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, profiled impervious plates (720), including hinge elements (722), complementary to the hinge elements (384, 385) which are provided at the top of the base (300, 350), and/or of the support profile (500, 550) with which they are intended to engage to form the said fourth hinge, and in that the said hinge elements (722) are supported longitudinally at the end of a plane section (721) of dimensions capable of accommodating at least the entire base profile (300, 350, 380) and/or the support profile (500, 550), as well as the corresponding bearing profiles (400, 440, 480), whatever the incline of the said plane section (721).

27. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterised in that it comprises, moreover, at least one adjustable rigid-making bracket (800), consisting of a central T-shaped profile (810), joined at its base (811) to the bottom of the base profile (300, 350) and/or the support profile (550), and the central web (812) of which, transverse to the base thereof, supports two elements (820, 830), whose clearance and angular position are adjustable with respect to the central web, the said adjustable elements having at least one bearing surface (821, 831) on which a portion of the bearing profiles (400, 440, 480) and/or the beams rest.

28. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 27, characterised in that the longitudinal hinge elements (101, 121, 141, 161), the transverse hinge elements (301, 351) and the third hinge elements (501, 551), and the elements (201, 251 ; 401, 441 ; 481) which are complementary to them, consist, on the one hand, of a profiled member, having a dome generally with a convex outer contour, with a narrowing, at the level of which the overall cross-sectional thickness thereof is minimal, and on the other hand, of a member having a groove between its edges, enabling the introduction of the dome substantially presented according to its minimal thickness in a so-called introduction position, while after pivoting into the so-called operating position, the dome is fixed in the groove, and is capable of relative pivoting with respect to this groove.

29. Structure according to claim 28, characterised in that the dome of the hinge elements is provided with an axial opening, capable of accommodating a screw.

30. Structure according to one of claims 1 to 29, characterised in that the longitudinal hinge elements (101, 121, 141, 161), the transverse hinge elements (301, 351), the third hinge elements (501, 551) and the elements (201, 251 ; 401, 441 ; 481) which are complementary to them, and the bearing profiles (400, 440, 480) are adapted to the dimensions of modular panels, in order to permit the standardization and positioning of these, whatever configurations are encountered.

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