| 摘要 |
Systems and methods for supporting a solar panel array are disclosed, with embodiments specifically directed to spanning bodies of water such as aqueducts, canals, or other waterways. Cable truss assemblies are used to support panel receivers and solar panels mounted over the panel receivers. The cable truss assemblies are supported on groups of columns or other vertically extending support members anchored in the ground. Cable anchor lines may supplement anchoring and support of the installed solar panel array. Embodiments of the system include various combinations of supporting cables making up the cable truss assemblies. A method is also provided for construction of the solar panel array. Lengthy and continuous spans of the solar panel array can be installed over waterways by use of the cable truss assemblies. The solar panel arrays produce power, and simultaneously reduce evaporation from the waterways, resulting in conservation of water. |
| 主权项 |
1. A solar panel array comprising:
a plurality of panel receivers each having a plurality of solar panels mounted thereto, said solar panel array having a length and a width; each said panel receiver including a pair of spaced main struts, a plurality of strut stabilizers interconnecting said main struts, a center strut extending substantially perpendicular from said main struts and said strut stabilizers, and a plurality of strut cables, a first end of said strut cables being attached to a distal end of said center strut, and a second opposite end of said strut cables being attached to said main struts or said strut stabilizers; a plurality of columns positioned at exterior edges of said solar panel array; and a pair of spaced apart cable truss assemblies for supporting said plurality of panel receivers, each cable truss assembly including a first support cable and a second support cable each extending between respective columns, and a plurality of compression members interconnecting said first and second support cables, said first and second support cables being vertically oriented with one another, said first support cable having a first curvature, and said second cable having a second opposite curvature, said first and second support cables crossing one another and connected to one another along at least one lateral crossing point along a span of said cable truss assembly. |
