Development of a Mathematical Framework for Solar Carport Design
Research Summary
The structural framework of a solar carport includes multiple columns, braces, crossbeams and purlins. The nature of the framework leads to an indeterminate structure that requires advanced structural analysis techniques, typically achieved using structural analysis and design software, like RISA. The application of the software is time and cost intensive and thus usually not implemented in the early bidding and design phases of a solar carport project. A comprehensive mathematical framework was thus developed during this research effort. The framework implemented parametric modeling of carport and its members to reduce the real time burden from weeks to few seconds.
Outcomes
Provided the first integrated structural and performance analysis model for solar carport design
Created a parametric model for solar carport design and analysis, implemented in Python. Model utilized two-dimensional beam element formulation in conjunction with all of the critical AISC and AISI design checks to design and analyze a variety of indeterminate structural configurations
Provided expedient, accurate, consistent and reliable structural analysis results for solar carport project design
Framework was selected as a part of the $5 million operational cost reduction initiative at SunPower