Let's drill this hole at an angle

Solar panel framework with solar panel attached

Detail of solar panel prior to mounting

Mating up the framework to the solar panel

Attaching the framework to the solar panel

Attaching the framework to the solar panel

Assembling the complete framework, including solar panel

Assembling the complete framework, including solar panel

Assembling the complete framework, including solar panel

Assembling the complete framework, including solar panel

Assembling the complete framework, including solar panel

Checking framework construction

Completed panels up on the rooftop, rear view

Completed panels up on the rooftop, front view

Tracking The Sun With Our Solar Arrays

After we finished framing up the solar panels and put them on the roof, we decided to make these arrays self-positioning, so they could track the sun across the sky. To that end, we built a solid platform for each framework using OSD (Oriented strand board, a special weather-resistant composite building material much like plywood). The solar panel framework is attached to one OSB platform, that rotates on an axle pivot and four rollers atop a second platform mounted on the rooftop.

After a few days in use we realized that the platform sagged in the center, probably because of the weight of the framework assembly it was supporting, and the effects of airborne humidity. We added a couple of additional slats to stiffen and strengthen the platform.