What is cable-supported photovoltaic (PV)?

Cable-supported photovoltaic (PV) modules have been proposed to replace traditional beam-supported PV modules. The new system uses suspension cables to bear the loads of the PV modules and therefore has the characteristics of a long span, light weight, strong load capacity, and adaptability to complex terrains.

What are the structural static characteristics of a new PV system?

The structural static characteristics of the new PV system under self-weight, static wind load, snow load and their combination effect are further studied according to the Chinese design codes (Load Code For The Design Of Building Structures GB 2009-2012 and Code For Design Of Photovoltaic Power Station GB 50797-2012).

What are the characteristics of a cable-supported photovoltaic system?

Long span, light weight, strong load capacity, and adaptability to complex terrains. The nonlinear stiffness of the new cable-supported photovoltaic system is revealed. The failure mode of the new structure is discussed in detail. Dynamic characteristics and bearing capacity of the new structure are investigated.

What rack configurations are used in photovoltaic plants?

The most used rack configurations in photovoltaic plants are the 2 V × 12 configuration (2 vertically modules in each row and 12 modules per row) and the 3 V × 8 configuration (3 vertically consecutive modules in each row and 8 modules per row). Codes and standards have been used for the structural analysis of these rack configurations.

What is a photovoltaic mounting system?

Photovoltaic mounting systems (also called solar module racking) are used to fix solar panels on surfaces like roofs, building facades, or the ground. [ 1 ] These mounting systems generally enable retrofitting of solar panels on roofs or as part of the structure of the building (called BIPV). [ 2 ]

What is a new cable supported PV structure?

New cable supported PV structures: (a) front view of one span of new PV modules; (b) cross-section of three cables anchored to the beam; (c) cross-section of two different sizes of triangle brackets. The system fully utilizes the strong tension ability of cables and improves the safety of the structure.