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Today, solar panels (~35 kg) are lifted at arm’s length on ladders, exposing workers to falls, strain injuries, slow adjustments, and inconsistent quality.
In collaboration with EDF Power Solution, this R&D project developed a frugal, ergonomic, and robust tool for photovoltaic panel installation — reducing risks, boosting efficiency, and ensuring quality.
A secure gripping tool for photovoltaic panels, adaptable to different thicknesses. Its toggle-clamp mechanism ensures quick locking and release, while rubber pads protect panels from damage.
A simple yet effective accessory that prevents panels from sliding once positioned at height, while ensuring precise alignment without repeated measurements.
Specially developed adapters (e.g. for Araymond clamps) allow operators to fix panel frames directly to supporting purlins from the ground. Variants have also been designed for other clamp types such as Axial, ensuring full compatibility.
Magnetic spacers guarantee consistent spacing between modules during installation. This hands-free solution ensures optimal alignment and quality while reducing post-installation corrections.
This pragmatic, user-centered approach led to the patent FR3149369A1 covering the unique handling and installation system. Between 2022 and 2025, the project followed a rigorous design and R&D methodology: from field immersion, to iterative prototyping, and collaborative validation with EDF.
A – 2022 – Field immersion, filmed timing
B – 2022 – Team Workshops
C – 2022 – R&D Design Project, HSE focus
D – 2023 – Concept Generation
E – 2023 – Technical Demonstrator
F – 2023 – Tests & Feedback (REX)
G – 2023 – User Scenarios & Simulation
H – 2023 – V2 Design + Accessories
I – 2023 – Prototype V2 Fabrication
J – 2025 – Patent
K – 2025 – KIT Fabrication
Recent tests have demonstrated safe, fast installation without scaffolding or ladders—a major HSE improvement—while also reducing installation time and increasing quality. The next challenge is to establish industrial partnerships for large-scale deployment.