Finite element analysis reveals deformation limits of photovoltaic systems under ground settlement, highlighting severe operational vulnerability in single-axis tracking designs.
Key Points
To evaluate the structural integrity and operational adaptability of fixed, horizontal single-axis tracking, and flexible photovoltaic support structures subjected to differential ground settlement.
Constructed three-dimensional finite element models in ANSYS for fixed, horizontal single-axis tracking, and flexible photovoltaic support assemblies.
Applied linear-gradient settlement to simulate ground inclination and evaluated load-transfer paths, internal stress concentrations, and failure thresholds across various foundation configurations.
Fixed support structures were governed primarily by column-top horizontal displacement limits, with controlling critical inclinations ranging from 17.5‰ to 19.2‰.
Horizontal single-axis tracking systems demonstrated strength-controlled and displacement-controlled inclinations of 31.8‰ and 17.5‰, but drive system height tolerances restricted the operation-controlled critical inclination to 2.8‰.
Flexible support structures yielded first at the Q235 end columns at an inclination of 18.3‰, showing ground tilt adaptability comparable to fixed supports while outperforming tracking systems.