Long-Span Solar Collector Truss for Low-Load Rooftop Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing long span solar panel support structures are costly, heavy, and difficult to install due to high material weight, excessive labor requirements, and structural challenges from wind loads, which limits their applicability for rooftop installations.
Innovation Solution
A centrally supported truss structure with a V-shaped configuration that reduces bending and twisting loads by directing wind loads towards the base, allowing for a single point of support and minimizing roof penetrations, featuring a lightweight design and adjustable tilt capability for easy installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional continuous profile beams are used for long span solar support, then structural strength is improved, but weight increases significantly making installation difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The beam structure is divided into multiple truss segments connected by joints, replacing the continuous profile beam. Each truss segment spans a portion of the total length, with intermediate support points that reduce the weight of individual segments while maintaining overall structural strength for long span applications
Solution Approach 2:
The truss structure combines multiple structural elements (beams, joints, connectors) to create a composite system that achieves higher strength-to-weight ratio than solid continuous beams, using distributed structural support rather than uniform material distribution
2Length of moving object
If truss structures are used for long span capability, then span length is improved, but installation labor and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The truss structure is divided into modular segments that can be manufactured separately and assembled in the field, reducing on-site construction complexity while achieving long span capability through standardized repeating units
Solution Approach 2:
The truss structure incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow for field assembly and configuration adjustments, enabling long span structures to be deployed with reduced labor requirements compared to fixed rigid trusses
3Ease of manufacture
If simply supported uniform beams are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but bending stress increases with distance from supports
Solution Approach 1:
The truss structure concentrates structural material and stiffness at critical locations (joints, support points, mid-span connections) rather than distributing it uniformly, reducing bending stress at high-stress regions while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized components
4Length of moving object
If higher profile structures are used for longer spans, then span capability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The long span is achieved through multiple smaller truss segments rather than a single high-profile structure, reducing material costs and manufacturing complexity while maintaining the required span length through distributed support
Data Source
AI summary
A long span solar collector mounting system with a deployable truss structure centered beneath the beam, and a single centered vertical support and a stabilizing end support, for mounting solar panels and other equipment on roofs and other surfaces, that can be tilted to a desired angle with respect to the ground, and can be rotated about its vertical axis to maximize solar production, with a vertical member that is offset to direct resultant wind loads directly through the base thereby minimizing twisting or bending stresses on roof structures, with beam clamping capability for attaching to roof beams below the roof with only access above the roof, that can be tilted during and after installation for reroofing and servicing access, with angled retaining nuts that provide secure attachment of solar panels and other equipment.