Constructing The Solar Panel Framework, Continued
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.
