Open Source Racking for Solar Cell Modules

thingiverse

Combine bolts and wire along with 3-D printable brackets to drastically slash the cost of solar cell racking. Solar photovoltaic costs have plummeted so much that now the racking costs more than the solar panels for small systems. To solve this, we created a 3-D printable racking design that cuts costs by 80%. The X-wire racking system consists of corner brackets and crossing steel cables. Brackets are designed in OpenSCAD and can be tailored to individual needs. Our prototype X-wire rack was fabricated using a RepRap 3-D printer in PLA (as shown in images) and stabilized with a steel threaded rod. Coupling the rod and bracket into one component is possible. For full BOM details about the system, testing, development for ground mounted systems see link above and for roof mounted systems. For project page information visit Appropedia and for all OpenSCAD files. Print Settings Printer Brand: RepRap Printer: MOST delta Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 300 Infill: 100% Notes: For the full BOM and details see papers linked above- Print at 100% infill for mechanical strength, if using PLA it must be coated/painted to prevent breakdown.