As the core supporting structure of a photovoltaic power generation system, the photovoltaic bracket's design needs to be specifically optimized according to the terrain and geomorphological characteristics to balance structural safety, economy, and environmental adaptability. In complex terrain conditions, the structural optimization of the photovoltaic bracket requires comprehensive consideration from multiple dimensions, including foundation type, bracket type, component arrangement, material selection, and intelligent design, to form a systematic solution.
In mountainous environments, the photovoltaic bracket must cope with challenges such as undulating slopes and significant differences in geological conditions. For steep slopes, an adjustable column structure can be adopted. Through the "large and small sleeve" splicing design of pre-embedded square or round steel pipes with the columns, the bracket height can be flexibly adjusted within a certain range, ensuring that the column tops of the same string are on the same slope, avoiding component tilting caused by terrain undulations. For mountains with good rock conditions, a cup-shaped foundation structure can effectively reduce the amount of bedrock excavation, and grouting material can enhance the tensile and shear bearing capacity of the column base, reducing overall costs. Furthermore, optimizing the connection positions between the inclined beams and purlins is equally crucial. Using external connectors instead of traditional bolt hole alignment avoids on-site drilling and rework, improving installation efficiency.
In plains or desert areas, photovoltaic brackets need to address the conflict between wind load and land utilization. Fixed double-column brackets, due to their uniform stress distribution and high stability, are the preferred solution for flat terrain; while single-column brackets, by saving land resources, are suitable for sloping or hilly areas. To improve power generation efficiency, the module arrangement can be optimized based on local latitude and solar azimuth. For example, a vertical double-layer arrangement eliminates the need for inter-column support structures, reducing steel consumption and lowering costs; a horizontal four-layer arrangement requires increased purlin spacing and a robust support system to ensure structural strength. Simultaneously, using flexible photovoltaic bracket technology, with prestressed steel strands to form a large-span support structure, can avoid the impact of vegetation shading or terrain undulations, achieving efficient land use.
Floating photovoltaic projects place higher demands on the corrosion resistance and wave resistance of the brackets. Floating supports utilize a combination of pontoons and high-strength materials, employing a buoyancy balancing system to adapt to water level changes and ensure components maintain optimal tilt angles. Column-type supports are secured to the shallow water sediment with long piles; therefore, optimizing the vertical compressive and tensile strength of the pile foundations is crucial to prevent structural instability due to water erosion or waves. Furthermore, material selection for surface supports prioritizes salt spray corrosion resistance; aluminum alloys or zinc-magnesium-aluminum coated steel can significantly extend service life and reduce later maintenance costs.
For special terrains, such as humid coastal areas or frigid regions, photovoltaic bracket design must incorporate environmental adaptability. In coastal areas where salt spray corrosion is severe, the support surface requires anodizing or fluorocarbon paint treatment, along with the use of stainless steel bolts to reduce rust risk. In frigid regions, the issue of concrete frost heave must be considered; increasing foundation depth or wrapping with insulation materials can prevent structural cracking due to permafrost expansion. Furthermore, the application of modular design simplifies the transportation and installation process of photovoltaic brackets. Through the rapid assembly of standardized components, it adapts to the construction needs of different terrains, shortening project cycles.
The integration of intelligent technology provides a new direction for the optimization of photovoltaic brackets. By integrating sensors and IoT technology, brackets can monitor parameters such as wind speed and tilt angle in real time and automatically adjust component angles to maximize sunlight reception efficiency. Combined with Geographic Information System (GIS) data, terrain elevation and slope can be analyzed in advance, providing precise geographic-adaptive algorithm support for bracket design. For example, in complex mountainous environments, intelligent tracking brackets can dynamically optimize operating strategies based on real-time meteorological data, increasing power generation while reducing equipment failure rates.
The structural optimization of photovoltaic brackets must adhere to the core principle of "adapting to local conditions." Through innovation in basic forms, adaptation of bracket types, optimization of component arrangement, upgrading of material selection, and integration of intelligent technologies, solutions covering all terrain scenarios can be formed. This process not only needs to consider structural safety and economy but also requires forward-looking consideration of environmental adaptability and ease of operation and maintenance to drive the photovoltaic industry towards high efficiency and sustainability.
