WO2020229755A1

WO2020229755A1 - Photovoltaic panel

Info

Publication number: WO2020229755A1
Application number: PCT/FR2020/050751
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alain Straboni; Gaëtan LORRILLERE; Alioune SOW
Original assignee: S'tile
Priority date: 2019-05-10
Filing date: 2020-05-06
Publication date: 2020-11-19
Also published as: FR3095911A1; FR3095911B1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a photovoltaic covering element (2), comprising a first support plate (22) and at least one photovoltaic module (21) adhered (28) to the support plate, each module comprising a plurality of photovoltaic cells (242) and a second glass plate (24), and the at least lateral edges of the second plates (24) comprising a change in cross-section (243; 243'; 243").

Description

DESCRIPTION

Solar panel

The present patent application claims the priority of the French patent application FR19 / 04876 which will be considered as forming an integral part of the present description.

Technical area

The present description relates generally to photovoltaic installations and more particularly the installation of photovoltaic panels on the roof (roof or facade).

Prior art

[0002] Photovoltaic panels are mainly used by being placed on the ground, for example, in fields (we then speak of photovoltaic power plants) or on the roof of a building.

[0003] In the case of roofs, the panels are conventionally attached to an existing roof and therefore come in extra thickness. This adds weight to the existing roofing (for example, tile or slate) and sometimes requires reinforcing the frame supporting the roof.

More recently it has been proposed to partially replace existing covers with photovoltaic panels. However, this then often poses sealing problems, making the solution inconvenient to implement. To solve them, we have to add around and between the panels, complex mechanical elements, expensive and which slow down the installation of the photovoltaic roof. In addition, the existing panels are often poorly suited to imparting a suitable aesthetic to a roof. [0005] Document US2019 / 020301 describes photovoltaic roofing tiles and a method of manufacturing such tiles.

[0006] Document 2010/151803 describes roofing products for photovoltaic roofing elements and systems for using such elements.

[0007] Document WO2018 / 019638 describes a building facade or roof.

[0008] Document EP 2 323 175 describes profiles for mechanical retention and covering of the modules.

[0009] Document WO 2012/120208 describes a coating of a roof panel provided with laminated photovoltaic panels or standard two-glass.

[0010] Document WO 2012/168674 describes a fixing device for a solar tile.

[0011] Document EP 2 317 246 describes a frame in several parts for a plate-shaped module.

Summary of the invention

[0012] There is a need to improve the techniques for installing photovoltaic panels on the roof or on the facade.

[0013] One embodiment overcomes all or part of the drawbacks of known photovoltaic roofs.

[0014] One embodiment provides for a photovoltaic covering element which is particularly suitable for mounting on a roof or on a facade.

[0015] One embodiment provides for a solution compatible with a slate-type roofing aspect.

[0016] One embodiment provides for a cover panel mounting element (roof or facade). One embodiment provides a mounting element particularly suitable for mounting photovoltaic roofing elements on the roof.

An embodiment of one aspect of the present description provides a photovoltaic cover element comprising:

a first support plate; and

at least one photovoltaic module bonded to the support plate,

in which :

each module comprises several photovoltaic cells and a second glass plate; and

the at least lateral edges of the second plates (24) include a change of section.

According to one embodiment, the change of section has a form of protuberance towards the outside of the cover element.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the change of section defines a concave portion.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the edges of the second plates are, at least for the side edges, partially cutaway.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the edges of the second plates are flat and perpendicular to the external face of the cover element.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the first plate is made of glass.

According to one embodiment, several modules are aligned edge to edge in the length of the first plate.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the cover element comprises a strip of photovoltaic cells common to the modules of the element and several second plates, the number of second plates corresponding to the number of modules.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the contiguous edges of the second plates are glued to each other.

[0027] According to one embodiment, an upper part of each module has no cell.

According to one embodiment, said upper part represents between 20 and 40%, preferably approximately 25% of the surface of the module.

According to one embodiment, said upper part is intended to overlap the bottom of one or more other cover elements.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the cover element further comprises an electrical connection block of the modules against the upper edge of the plate.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the cover element comprises a single first plate and four second plates

[0032] According to one embodiment, the first plate has a dimension of approximately 1.20 m by 50 cm.

[0033] One embodiment provides a covering (roof or facade) comprising several rows of covering elements as described, the elements of the same row being contiguous edge to edge and the elements of an upper row partially covering two elements of a lower row.

[0034] According to one embodiment, each element is held by two mounting elements attached to battens.

[0035] According to one embodiment, each mounting element comprises:

a turntable;

at least a first internal protruding tab of a upper edge of the plate; and

at least two nozzles projecting externally from a lower edge of the plate.

According to one embodiment, the mounting elements are arranged staggered from one batten to the other of the frame.

[0037] An embodiment of another aspect provides for a mounting element for a cover element, comprising:

a turntable;

at least a first tab projecting internally from an upper edge of the plate; and

at least two nozzles projecting externally from a lower edge of the plate.

According to one embodiment, the side edges of the plate are not parallel to each other, the lower edge being longer than the upper edge.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the plate is at least 10 centimeters wide in its widest part.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the lower and upper edges are mutually parallel.

According to one embodiment, the side edges of the plate are rectilinear between the upper and lower edges.

According to one embodiment, the outer face of the plate has projecting two longitudinal seals, preferably half-ring near the side edges.

[0043] According to one embodiment, at least one lateral edge of the plate is folded over its entire length on the outer face side, approximately at 180 °, preferably at 180 °, so as to form a flap directed towards the other edge lateral. According to one embodiment, the two side edges are folded over their entire length on the outer face side.

According to one embodiment, the plate is generally trapezoidal in shape.

According to one embodiment, the other side edge is folded back at 90 ° over its entire length in the direction of the internal face.

[0047] According to one embodiment, a lateral edge is perpendicular to the upper and lower edges.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the mounting element further comprises at least one second lateral tab parallel to the first tab, projecting sideways and projecting internally from the plate.

According to one embodiment, the plate comprises a first part having at least one side edge not perpendicular to the upper and lower edges, and a second part of rectangular shape.

According to one embodiment, the first part is of trapezoidal shape.

[0051] According to one embodiment, a side edge is perpendicular to the upper and lower edges.

According to one embodiment, the mounting element further comprises at least one protruding spout externally from said perpendicular side edge.

According to one embodiment, the second leg (s) are at the junction between the first part and the second part.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the mounting element is obtained by cutting and bending a sheet, preferably of galvanized steel or of zinc. According to one embodiment, the first tab is intended to bear against the upper face of a first batten.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the second leg or legs are intended to bear against the upper face of a second batten parallel to the first batten.

One embodiment provides a covering (roof or facade) comprising:

several rows of flat roofing elements; and several mounting elements as described, each covering element resting on two mounting elements, the covering elements of the same row being contiguous edge to edge and the elements of an upper row partially covering two elements of one lower row.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the cover elements are photovoltaic panels each comprising:

a first glass support plate; and

at least one photovoltaic module bonded to the support plate, each module comprising several photovoltaic cells and a second glass plate.

According to one embodiment, several modules are aligned edge to edge along the length of each plate.

Brief description of the drawings

These characteristics and advantages, as well as others, will be explained in detail in the following description of particular embodiments given without limitation in relation to the accompanying figures, among which:

[0061] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a roof of photovoltaic panels; FIG. 2 is a perspective view, simplified and very schematic, of an embodiment of a photovoltaic panel;

[0063] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of details of an embodiment of a photovoltaic panel as illustrated by FIG. 2;

[0064] FIG. 3A is a sectional view illustrating a variant of FIG. 3;

Figure 3B is a sectional view illustrating another variant of Figure 3;

[0066] FIG. 4 is a perspective and partial view of a roof section before installation of photovoltaic panels;

[0067] FIG. 5 is a perspective and partial view of a roof section after installation of a cover made of photovoltaic panels;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a mounting member of a cover member;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of another mounting member of a cover member;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of yet another mounting member of a cover member;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of yet another mounting member of a cover member;

Figure 9A is an enlargement of part of the mounting member of Figure 9; FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of yet another mounting member of a cover member; and

Figure 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of yet another mounting member of a cover member.

Description of embodiments

The same elements have been designated by the same references in the various figures. In particular, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different embodiments may have the same references and may have identical structural, dimensional and material properties.

For the sake of clarity, only the steps and elements useful for understanding the embodiments described have been shown and are detailed. In particular, the production of the photovoltaic cells of the panels, as well as the connection of the panels to an energy conversion and / or storage system, have not been detailed, the embodiments described being compatible with the usual embodiments. .

Unless otherwise specified, when referring to two elements connected together, this means directly connected without intermediate elements, and when referring to two elements connected or coupled together, this means that these two elements can be connected or be linked or coupled through one or more other elements.

In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as the terms "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", etc., or relative, such as the terms "above", "below", "upper", "lower", etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as the terms "horizontal", "vertical", etc., reference is made unless otherwise specified to the orientation of the figures or a roof in normal position.

Unless otherwise specified, the expressions "approximately", "approximately", "substantially", and "of the order of" mean within 10% or 10 °, preferably within 5% or 5 °.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a roof 1, the covering of which is made with photovoltaic panels.

In the example of Figure 1, the roof 1 taken as an example is a two-slope roof, but the embodiments described apply more generally regardless of the number of slopes of the roof, for example to a four-pitch roof, and regardless of the number of roof dropouts provided in the roof. However, the embodiments described apply more particularly to sloping roof sections.

The roof 1 consists of a frame 12 and a cover 14. According to the embodiments described, the frame is a conventional frame, that is to say not necessarily specifically provided for photovoltaic panels. Only the upper part of the frame is shown in Figure 1. Cover 14 is a cover made, preferably, entirely of photovoltaic panels 2.

Each panel 2 preferably comprises several groups of photovoltaic cells distributed in modules 21, defining photovoltaic modules. According to a preferred embodiment, each panel 2 comprises four modules 21. However, a different number of modules 21 can be provided per panel 2.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view, simplified and very schematic, of an embodiment of a photovoltaic panel 2.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of details of an embodiment of a photovoltaic panel as illustrated in FIG. 2.

According to the embodiments described, a panel 2 comprises a first glass support plate 22 on (an upper face of) which photovoltaic cells 242 are attached, covered with second protection plates 24, serving as a structure for the photovoltaic modules . The format of the plates 24 defines the format of the modules 21. More precisely, a strip 25 or string of photovoltaic cells 242, if necessary distributed according to the pattern of the modules 21, is attached to the plate 22 and is surmounted by several plates 24 of glass protection.

FIG. 3 more particularly illustrates details of the production of a panel 2 at the level of the join between two modules 21.

Photovoltaic cells 242 are embedded or encapsulated in a polymer by being electrically connected from one group of cells to another by conductors 246. This structure in itself is usual and any type of cell arrangement. photovoltaic 242 is suitable. The strip 25 is, for example, glued (adhesive layer 281) to the support plate 22.

Preferably, the strip 25 extends over the entire length of the plate 22.

The modular glass plates 24 are bonded (layer 282) by their lower faces to an upper face of the strip 25. In addition, the (side) edges of the plates 24 of the same panel 2 are also preferably glued to one another (layer 283). As a variant, the plates 24 of the same panel 2 are placed end to end, glass against glass.

In the example of Figure 3, the side edges of the module plates 24 are bevelled or cutaway 243 in the upper part of their thickness, the joining of two plates 24 taking place at the lower right part edges. Such bevels participate in giving the roofing a slate appearance. If necessary, the four edges of the modules are bevelled.

FIG. 3A illustrates, by a simplified sectional view to be compared to FIG. 3, a variant in which the cut sides 243 of FIG. 3 are replaced by triangular shapes 243 'directed outwards.

FIG. 3B illustrates, in a simplified sectional view to be compared to FIG. 3, another variant in which the cut sides 243 of FIG. 3 are replaced by rounded portions 243 "directed outwards. In d 'In other words, concave portions are provided, the arc of a circle formed by the portion connecting the edge of the plate to the rest of the latter having its center inward.

In general, the glass plates 24 covering the photovoltaic modules comprise, at least at their lateral edges, a change of section resulting in a slice of thickness less than that of the rest of the plate (FIG. 3) or thicker than the rest of the plate (Figures 3A and 3B).

Whether in the embodiment of Figure 3 or in those of Figures 3A and 3B, the side edges of the module plates 24 have the same thickness. (less than that of the rest of plate 24 for the embodiment of Figure 3 or greater than that of the rest of plate 24 for the embodiment of Figure 3A or Figure 3B) for all roofing elements . This helps to give a particular aesthetic to the cover produced.

Likewise, whatever the embodiment, the side edges of the plates 24 are flat and perpendicular to the outer face of the cover element. These slices therefore form an angle of 90 ° with the internal face of the plate.

The support plate 22 ensures the mechanical strength of the modules 21 relative to each other. Thus, according to the embodiments described, the glass plate 22 serves as a frame for mechanically assembling the modules together. The glass constituting the plate 22 is preferably devoid of electrical functions. This simplifies its manufacture and implementation. As a variant, the support plate 22 is made of a material other than glass, provided to be a material, by nature or through an optional coating, impermeable to water, non-oxidizable, and adapted to mechanically support the cells 242 and modular plates 24, therefore modules 21. For example, a support plate of zinc-plated steel or of aluminum alloy could be provided, if necessary covered with a paint or an insulating enamel. Glass is however a preferred material due to its inert and particularly durable nature.

In order to allow mounting of the panels by vertical overlap (in the height of the roof), the modules 21 are preferably devoid of photovoltaic cells in the upper part 214 (FIG. 2). In other words, the portion of the strip 25 located directly above the upper parts 214 does not include a cell 242. This zone or part 214, devoid of photovoltaic cells, is intended to be covered from the bottom of the upper modules, as will be better understood in relation to figure 4.

The height of the part 214 of the module 21 devoid of cell 242 depends on the desired overlap between the panels 2 in the height direction. According to a particular embodiment, the overlap is between 20 and 40% of the height of the panel, preferably of the order of 25%. Thus, approximately 25% of the upper part of each module 21 is devoid of a photovoltaic cell. In other words, the part 214 represents between 20 and 40%, preferably about 25%, of the surface of the module 21. As a variant, for example if this makes the manufacture of the modules easier, cells are also provided in upper part 214 in the strip 25, but are then preferably not electrically connected so as not to drop the power of the module.

[0100] In the example of FIG. 2, four modules 21 are provided, therefore four protective plates 24 are mounted side by side in the direction of the length (the horizontal direction of the roof) of a support plate 22.

[0101] The constitution of the modules 21 is preferably different depending on the position of the module 21 in the panel 2. In particular, there is preferably a block or box 26 for electrical connection per panel 2. Each module 21, or more precisely, each portion of the strip 25 corresponding to a module 21 then comprises one or more conductive tracks 246 ′ suitable for electrically connecting the module concerned to an adjacent module or to the block 26 of the panel. Preferably, the block 26 is placed approximately in the middle of the panel 2 in the length direction and is attached against the panel at the top. In this case, the connection of the modules passes, for the end modules, through the central modules which are each connected directly to the block. The number of tracks 246 'depends on the electrical connection mode (series or parallel) of the cell modules of panel 2.

[0102] According to the embodiments described, the dimension of a cell 242 is a function, in the usual way, of the dimension that can be produced depending on the technology used (typically, the length of one side of the silicon wafers used). Usually, several cells 242 are interconnected in series or in parallel within one or more strings, themselves connected in series or in parallel within the same module 21 and are preferably embedded in a material. polymer, or encapsulant, between the support glass 22 and the upper or protective glass 24 constituting a structural element of the module 21. The patterns of the cells 242, whose conductive elements are generally visible due to the transparency of the protective glass 24 covering the cells 242, can take various forms depending on the application. According to another embodiment, so-called "black" modules are provided, the metal parts of which are not visible in order to impart an appearance of dark plates, such as slates, to the roof. According to another embodiment, the visible metal parts are used to give the modules a particular aesthetic.

[0103] As a particular example of an embodiment, the thickness of the modular plates 24 is a few millimeters, for example between approximately 3 and 7 mm, preferably of the order of 5 mm. The height of the straight part of the lateral edge is for example between approximately 2 and 4 mm, preferably of the order of 3 mm. The cut sides 243 are preferably at about 45 °. [0104] Still as a specific example of an embodiment, the thickness of the plates 22 is a few millimeters, for example between approximately 2 and 10 mm, preferably of the order of 3 mm.

[0105] According to the embodiments described, the panel 2, that is to say a plate 22, several modules 21 (strip 25 and plates 24) mounted on this plate, and an electrical block 26, constitute an element of roof covering 1. This roofing element or panel is manufactured in the factory or in the workshop and is intended to be mounted on a frame in the manner of a roof, for example a slate roof. Thus, the panels 2 are preferably plane at least on the upper face and preferably on their two faces.

An advantage of providing a support plate 22 separate from the photovoltaic modules 21 and shared by several modules 21 (therefore a plate 22 of dimensions greater than those of a module) is that this makes it possible to provide the same junction box 26 and the same pair of cables per panel 2, therefore for several modules. Using the example of four modules per panel, divide by four the number of junction boxes and cables per unit area (for example 2

per m), which constitutes a significant saving. The reduction in the number of electrical connections to be made on the roof at the time of installation also has an advantage in terms of installation time. The reduction in the number of electrical connections is also an advantage for the electrical safety of the installation.

[0107] Another advantage of the panel produced is that the flat surface provided on the lower face by the plate 22 facilitates assembly and improves the roof waterproofing in the manner of slate plates. [0108] As a particular example of an embodiment, the lengths (horizontal direction once mounted on the roof) and width (in the height of the roof) of a panel are respectively between approximately 30 cm and 3 m, preferably of the order of 1.2 m for the length and between 30 cm and 1 m, preferably of the order of 50 cm for the width or height.

[0109] Provision is made for mounting with vertical overlap (in the direction of the height of the roof) but without horizontal overlap. Thus, the elements or panels 2 of the same row are coplanar. On the other hand, an element 2 of a row covers the upper parts 214 of modules 21 of elements 2 of the immediately lower row. The arrangement is staggered so that each module (except the top row and, where applicable, the side edge panels of the roof) is covered at the top by two panels from the row immediately above. The lateral shift from one row to the next (or previous) can be any, but is preferably by half-module (or whole multiple of half-modules) or by module (or whole multiple of modules). This contributes to the aesthetics of the roof.

[0110] According to another aspect of the present description, there is provided a particular element for mounting photovoltaic panels 2 to provide the covering of a roof.

[0111] Figure 4 is a perspective and partial view of a roof section before installation of photovoltaic panels.

As indicated above, the implementation of the described embodiments of photovoltaic coverage is compatible with a usual framework. Thus in the example shown, we find, as in a traditional frame, rafters 122 in the direction of height, an optional under-roof screen 124, counter-slats 126 aligned with the rafters 122 in the event of use of 'a screen 124, and horizontal battens 128. To simplify, the supporting structure of the frame (purlins, punches, links, etc.) has not been shown, the embodiments described being compatible with usual embodiments.

[0113] According to the embodiments described, a particular shape and structure is provided for mounting elements to hold the cover panels. More particularly, the mounting elements have both a role of hooking up the cover panels and of sealing the side edge of the panels.

[0114] In general, each mounting element comprises a plate or plate, at least one tab projecting internally from an upper edge of the plate and at least two jaws projecting externally from a lower edge of the plate. The plate has dimensions such that it is wider at the bottom (in the direction of the roof) than at the top. Typically, its bottom edge is at least 10 centimeters, preferably at least 20 centimeters, while its top edge is at least 5 centimeters, preferably at least 10 centimeters.

[0115] FIG. 4 illustrates embodiments of mounting elements which will be detailed in relation to FIGS. 6 to 8. Other embodiments incorporating the same general principles are detailed in relation to FIGS. 9 to 11.

[0116] A particular structure of mounting elements 5 (FIG. 4) is provided to hold the cover panels 2. Each mounting element 5 has the shape of a hook and is intended to be hung on at least one batten 128 and, preferably with two parallel battens 128, preferably consecutive.

The role of the hooks 5 is not only to ensure the mechanical strength of the cover panels 2, but also to guarantee the waterproofing of the roof at the level of the lateral joints between panels. Indeed, as the assembly is provided edge to edge (not overlapping) in the horizontal direction, it is necessary to ensure the seal from below.

One could have thought of equipping the panels 2 with lateral sealing lips to direct the water towards the underlying row of panels. However, not only would this adversely affect the flatness of the roofing produced in the horizontal direction, but it would also make the assembly particularly complex.

According to the embodiments described, each hook 5 consists of a plate or plate 51 intended to receive at least one side edge of a panel. Each hook 5 comprises at least one tab (not visible in FIG. 4) directed towards the interior of the roof, for attaching the hook to a first batten or upper batten (for the hook concerned). According to the embodiment of hooks illustrated in Figure 4, each hook 5 further comprises one or more tabs 53 projecting laterally from the hook and intended (s) to bear against, preferably to be fixed (s) to a second batten 128 lower than the first batten of the hook concerned. The legs 53 bear against the high faces (towards the top of the roof) of the second battens. Preferably, the plate 51 of the hook protrudes from the second batten (towards the bottom of the roof). The tabs 53 are used to hold the panels in the event of strong winds that risk lifting them from their lower part.

[0120] Each panel rests on the respective plates 51 of two consecutive hooks 5 in the horizontal direction. Except on the lateral edges of the roof (special hooks, preferably provided for the edges of the roof will be described below in relation to the figures 7 and 8, 10 and 11 respectively), the plate 51 of each hook 5 receives the side edges of two adjoining panels 2. The edge-to-edge join between the two neighboring panels is intended to be approximately aligned, preferably aligned, with the middle of the plate 51 of the hook 5 in the height direction.

[0121] Each element or hook 5 comprises, in the lower part, at least two nozzles 55 intended to receive the respective longitudinal edges of the two panels received by the hook. The slats 55 have the role of preventing the panels 2 from sliding downwards.

[0122] In the upper part, the upper part 214 of the lateral module of each panel is preferably partially covered by the lower portion of the plate 51 with an upper hook which protrudes from the lower batten, or second batten, to which is hooked this upper hook. This upper hook is intended to receive the side edges of two panels 2 of the upper row.

[0123] As shown in Figure 4, the hooks are staggered in the direction of the height to allow a staggered arrangement of the cover panels from one row to another. In the example of FIG. 4, there is provided an offset corresponding to half the width of a module 21. However, any other offset may be provided depending on the layout desired for the roof.

[0124] The roof is assembled with the hooks 5 preferably as follows.

[0125] The battens 128 are placed while respecting the distance between the upper (upper) and lower (lower) legs of the hooks. Then, we begin by hooking the lower hooks 5 of the cover, that is to say those intended to receive the first lower row of panels 2.

[0127] A first row of panels 2 is then arranged.

Then, the elements 5 of the immediately upper row are hung, covering the upper part of the joints of the lower panels with the lower parts of the plates 51.

[0129] The electrical blocks 26 (FIG. 2) are then connected to a housing (not shown) for connecting the photovoltaic panels.

[0130] The second row of panels is then put in place and so on until reaching the top of the roof (near the ridge of the roof).

[0131] Preferably, the ridge of the roof is covered with a profile, for example made of zinc, covering the upper parts 214 of the panels of the last row.

[0132] As a variant, all the hooks 5 are hooked to the frame, then the panels 2 are placed one after the other by engaging them under the lower part of the plates of the upper row using flexibility or slight deformation ( reversible) of the turntables.

[0133] It will be noted that due to the assembly carried out, the upper hook (covering) of a row of panels is the lower hook (receiving) of the following row of panels (upwards).

[0134] FIG. 5 is a perspective and partial view of a roof section after installation of a cover made of photovoltaic panels. [0135] As shown in this figure, the only portions of the hooks 5 which remain visible are the nozzles 55 serving to prevent the panels 2 from sliding down the roof.

[0136] The hooks 5 are preferably made of zinc or of galvanized (or zinc-plated) steel or of stainless steel, or else of aluminum alloy. As a variant, plastic hooks can be provided, provided that they are sufficiently resistant and durable, in particular at their jaws 55 in order to prevent the panels 2 from sliding downwards.

It will be noted that, thanks to the arrangement provided, the blocks or electrical boxes 26 of the panels 2 are found between two battens. Thus, it is particularly easy to connect them electrically to the rest of the electrical installation (inverter, etc.) and to pass the cables.

[0138] Figure 6 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a mounting member 5 of a cover member.

[0139] The mounting element or hook 5 illustrated in FIG. 6 corresponds to the hooks illustrated in FIG. 4, therefore to the mounting elements used outside the lateral edges of the roof.

[0140] Each hook 5 comprises a plate 51 of generally rectangle shape, and preferably trapezoidal in the upper part 512. The plate 51 ends, or carries, at its upper end or upper edge 52, a tab 57 directed towards the lower face. of the plate (towards the interior of the roof). The tab 57 is preferably at right angles and is intended to bear against the upper face of a batten (not shown in FIG. 6), the interior face of the upper part of the plate (of the edge 52) being intended to rest against the external face (parallel to the roof section) of the batten. Preferably, the tab 57 extends all along the upper edge 52 of the plate. 51. If necessary, one can provide several tabs 57 distributed along the upper edge 52 of the plate 51.

[0141] Preferably, the tab 57 comprises one or more orifices 572 allowing the passage of a nail or screw for fixing the hook 5 in the upper batten.

[0142] On either side of the plate 51 in the lateral direction (horizontal of the roof panel), the hook 5 has a lateral tab 53 directed towards the underside of the plate 51. Each tab 53 is in lateral projection of the plate and comprises a lower portion intended to bear against the upper face of another batten (lower than the batten against which the tab 52 bears).

[0143] Preferably, each tab 53 has the appearance of a seat, which facilitates assembly by allowing all the hooks to be put in place before mounting the panels. Such a shape of the tabs 53 also facilitates the removal of a central panel without having to remove all the panels from an edge of the roof. In addition, it confers flexibility or spring effect in case of uplift by the wind.

[0144] As for the tab 57, the tabs 53 may include orifices 532 allowing the passage of a nail or screw for fixing the hook 5 in the batten, this time lower.

In the lower part (opposite the tab 51), the hook 5 comprises, at a lower edge 54, two nozzles 55 directed upwards (projecting from the external face of the plate 51). The lateral positions of the spouts 55 are approximately in each lateral half of the plate 51. The spouts 55 are intended to receive the edge of the two cover panels received by the hook 5. As a variant, a single spout extending from both sides is provided. and other of the middle from the lower edge of the plate 51 or more than two nozzles. In section, the nozzles 55 preferably form, with the portion of the underlying plate 51, a U open in the direction of the roof ridge.

The positions of the legs 53 in the height of the plate 51 are such that a lower or lower portion 514 of the plate 51 extends beyond the batten against which the legs 53 bear. The role of this portion or part 514 is to cover, in part, the upper part of the lower panel. Part 514 is preferably rectangular. In other words, the tabs 53 are at the junction between the upper part 512 and the lower part 514 of the plate 51.

[0147] According to a simplified embodiment, the plate 51 may be of generally square or rectangular shape.

[0148] According to the preferred embodiment as shown, the trapezoidal shape makes it possible to efficiently collect the water flows between two panels while saving material and thus reducing the weight of the roof.

[0149] In the case of a trapezoidal shape, the angles of the edges of the trapezoid with respect to its median are preferably about 45 °. Such an angle guarantees that the water infiltrating if necessary at this median (joint between two neighboring panels edge to edge) does not escape from the plate, but descends by gravity to the lower panel.

[0150] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of another mounting element 5 'of a cover element.

[0151] The mounting element or hook 5 'illustrated in FIG. 7 corresponds to a hook intended for the right edge of the roof panel. [0152] Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 6, the right edge 56 'of the plate 51' is not trapezoidal, but is straight (perpendicular to the upper edge 52 '). Assuming a lower edge 54 of the same length as for element 5 (figure 6), i.e. a part 514 of the same size as for element 5, upper edge 52 'is then longer in the embodiment of Figure 6 than in that of Figure 5. The tab 57 'preferably extends all along the edge 52'.

[0153] Furthermore, the right side edge 56 'preferably comprises one or more nozzles 55' to laterally hold the right end panel of the row of panels.

[0154] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of yet another mounting member 5 "of a cover member.

[0155] The mounting element or hook 5 "illustrated in FIG. 8 corresponds to a hook intended for the left edge of the roof pan.

[0156] Compared to the embodiment of FIG. 6, the left edge 56 "of the plate 51" is not trapezoidal, but is right (reverse or symmetrical situation with respect to the hook 5 'of FIG. 7). There is, as in the embodiment of Figure 7, an upper edge 52 "longer than the edge 52 of Figure 6 and one or more spouts 55" at the side edge 56 ", perpendicular to the upper edges 52" and lower 54, to laterally hold the left end panel of the row of panels.

[0157] Preferably, the end hooks 5 'and 5 "are provided on each row of panels 2.

[0158] As a specific example of an embodiment, the elements 5, 5 'and 5 "have the following dimensions: length (horizontal) of the plate 51 at the level of the edge 54 (length of the portion 514): approximately 50 cm, for example 50 cm;

height of item 5: about 60 cm;

length (in the direction of the edge of the plate which carries them) of the nozzles 55, 55 'and 55 ": approximately 5 cm, for example 5 cm;

thickness of the opening of the spouts (depending on the thickness of the panels 2): between approximately 6 and approximately 20 mm, preferably of the order of 10 mm;

height of the trapezoidal portion: approximately 35 cm; thickness (or height in the direction perpendicular to the plate) of the legs 52, 52 ', 52 "and 53: approximately 3 cm;

length of edge 52 (item 5): about 15 cm, for example 15 cm;

length of edge 52 '(element 5') or 52 "(element 5"): approximately 53 cm;

overall length of element 5 (including legs 53): approximately 60 cm, for example 58 cm; and

[0159] total length of the element 5 'or 5 "(including a tab 53): approximately 55 cm, for example 54 cm.

[0160] Figures 9 to 11 are perspective views of embodiments of other mounting elements 7, 7 'and 7 "of a cover element.

[0161] Figures 9 to 11 are similar to Figures 6 to 8 in that:

[0162] FIG. 9, like FIG. 6, represents a central element (between two cover elements), FIG. 9A being an enlargement of part of the element of FIG. 9; [0163] FIG. 10, like FIG. 7, represents a roof edge element intended for the right edge of the roof pan; and

[0164] FIG. 11, like FIG. 8, represents a roof edge element intended for the left edge of the roof pan.

For simplicity, we will insist below on the particularities of elements 7, 7 'and 7 "which are not found in elements 5, 5' and 5", most of the characteristics being repeated. In particular, each element or hook 7, 7 'or 7 "comprises, at the level of the upper edge 72, 72', 72" of its plate 71, 71 ', 71 ", at least one tab 77, 77', 77" (not visible in figure 11), directed towards the interior of the roof, hooking the hook to a first batten or upper batten (for the hook concerned). Each element or hook 7, 7 ', 7 "also comprises, in the lower part (lower edge 74) of its plate 71, 71', 71", at least two nozzles 75 intended to receive the respective longitudinal edges of the two panels received by the hook 7 or the longitudinal edge of the end panel received by the hook 7 'or 7 ".

[0166] Compared to the embodiments of Figures 6 to

8, the hooks 7, 7 'and 7 "have at least one flap 180 ° outwards (on the same side as the spouts 75) of one of the side edges over, preferably, its entire length. the two side edges 76 of the element 7 have flaps at 180 °, i.e. a complete folding of the sheet metal of the plate 71 on itself towards the other side edge, while only one side edge 76 of the elements 7 'and 7 "(the edge not perpendicular to the upper and lower edges) has such a flap 78. The width of the flaps 78 is at least 0.5 cm, preferably of the order of 1 to 2 cm. The role of the flaps 78 is to improve the lateral sealing by forming a rise in the lateral edge (s) of the element.

[0167] The lateral edge 76 ', respectively 76 ", of the element 7' or 7", intended to be at the edge of the roof panel (the edge perpendicular to the upper and lower edges) further comprises, preferably over all its length, a fold 79 ', respectively 79 ", at 90 ° inwards (on the same side as the legs 77, in the manner of an edge tile. The height of the fold 79 is at least 3 centimeters , preferably of the order of 5 to 10 centimeters.

[0168] Furthermore, there is preferably provided, in the vicinity of the lateral edges of each plate 71, 71 ', 71 ", a seal made of synthetic material. This seal has for example the form of a half-shaped seal. ring glued to the external face of the plate 71, 71 'or 71 ". Each gasket is parallel to the side edge of the plate 71, 71 'or 71 "to which it is closest. For example, the gaskets 80 are arranged at a distance of between 1 and 5 centimeters from the respective side edges of the plates 71, 71 'and 71 ". Each seal 80 has a length less than or equal, preferably less, than the length of the side edge with which it is associated. For example, a gap of between 1 and 3 centimeters is left free on either side of the joint in the length of the plate. The role of the joints 80 is to create an additional barrier to lateral flow relative to the junction between two roof panels. This improves waterproofing, especially in case of rain with side wind. For elements 7 'and 7 ", the joints 80 on the roof edge side prevent water from entering laterally, for example under the effect of the wind.

[0169] The dimensions of the elements 7, 7 'and 7 "are similar to the dimensions of the elements 5, 5' and 5". A difference between these embodiments, however, is that all side edges 76, 76 'and 76 "of elements 7, 7' and 7 "are rectilinear between the upper edges 72, 72 'and 72" and lower 74.

[0170] The shape given to the elements 5, 5 'and 5 ", respectively 7, 7' and 7", is compatible with making these elements by cutting, then bending a sheet, preferably in galvanized steel or in zinc, without it being necessary to add a component by fixing (welding or other). This greatly simplifies manufacturing and reduces the risk of manufacturing defects.

[0171] Depending on the number of modules per panel 2, the mode of connection (series or parallel) of the modules (which conditions the voltage supplied by the panels), and the layout of the roof elements, particular panels can be provided for make the edges of the roof. For example, we can provide that some panels:

be of small size, that is to say for example of the size of two, or even one or three, modules (solution more particularly suited to the case where the voltage of the installation corresponds to the voltage of a module); and / or comprises one or more modules not electrically connected.

[0172] One advantage is that this preserves a uniform aesthetic of the cover.

[0173] As a variant and as illustrated in FIG. 1, the edges of the cover are in certain rows without a panel. In this case, care should be taken to provide a non-photovoltaic roofing material but ensuring waterproofing at the edge of the roof. They could be, for example, panels without modules (that is to say glass plates 22 alone) or panels comprising plate 22 and module 24 without photovoltaic cell. According to another example, it could be traditional slates (of appropriate dimensions). [0174] One advantage of the embodiments described is that they allow the production of a roof with flat rows, similar to a slate roof.

[0175] Another advantage of the embodiments described is that the assembly of the cover is particularly simple and quick to implement.

[0176] Another advantage of the embodiments described is that the maintenance and replacement of a panel is facilitated, compared to panels whose frame is fixed to the frame.

[0177] According to an alternative embodiment, the hooks and cover panels are used for coating or covering inclined or vertical facades. Everything that has been described above in relation to an example applied to roof covering elements can be easily transposed for installation on the facade.

[0178] Various embodiments and variants have been described. Those skilled in the art will understand that certain features of these various embodiments and variants could be combined, and other variants will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In particular, although the combination of the embodiments of photovoltaic panels and hooks described constitutes a preferred embodiment due to the synergy of the effects of each, provision may be made for them to be used separately. For example, provision may be made for mounting photovoltaic panels as described with fixing systems other than hooks while retaining the advantages associated with the construction of the panels. According to another example, provision could be made to use the hooks as described to mount other covering elements (photovoltaic or not, for example, slates) while retaining the advantages specific to the constitution of the hooks. Finally, the practical implementation of the embodiments and variants described is within the abilities of those skilled in the art on the basis of the functional indications given above.

Claims

1. Photovoltaic cover element (2) comprising:

a first support plate (22); and

at least one photovoltaic module (21) bonded (28) to the support plate,

in which :

each module comprises several photovoltaic cells (242) and a second glass plate (24); and the at least lateral edges of the second plates (24) have a change of section (243; 243 ';

243 ").

2. Element according to claim 1, wherein the change of section (243 '; 243 ") has a form of protuberance towards the outside of the cover element.

3. Element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the change in section (243 ") defines a concave portion.

4. Element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the edges of the second plates (24) are, at least for the side edges, partially cutaway (243).

5. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the edges of the second plates (24) are plane and perpendicular to the outer face of the cover element.

6. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first plate (22) is made of glass.

7. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein several modules (21) are aligned edge to edge in the length of the first plate (22).

8. Element according to claim 7, comprising a strip of photovoltaic cells (242) common to the modules (21) of the element and several second plates (24), the number of second plates (24) corresponding to the number of modules (21).

9. Element according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the contiguous edges of the second plates (24) are bonded (283) to each other.

10. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein an upper part (214) of each module

(21) is cell-free.

11. Element according to claim 10, wherein said upper part (214) represents between 20 and 40%, preferably about 25% of the surface of the module (21).

12. The element of claim 9 or 10, wherein said upper portion (214) is intended to overlap the bottom of one or more other cover elements (2).

13. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a block (26) for electrically connecting the modules (21) against the upper edge of the plate.

(22).

14. Element according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a single first plate (22) and four second plates (24).

15. An element according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first plate (22) has a dimension of approximately 1.20 m by 50 cm.

16. Cover (1) comprising several rows of cover elements (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the elements of the same row being contiguous edge to edge and elements of an upper row partially covering two elements of a lower row.

17. Cover according to claim 16, wherein each element (2) is held by two mounting elements (5, 5 ', 5 ") attached to battens (128).

18. Cover according to claim 17, wherein each mounting element comprises:

a plate (51, 51 ', 51 ");

at least a first tab (57, 57 ', 57 ") projecting internally from an upper edge (52, 52', 52") of the plate; and

at least two nozzles (55) projecting externally from a lower edge (54) of the plate.

19. Covering according to claim 18, wherein the mounting elements are staggered from one batten (128) to the other of the frame (12).