Effect of Panel Shapes on Wind-Induced Vibrations of Solar Wing System under Various Wind Environments

In the present study, effects of panel shapes on wind-induced vibrations of solar wing system under various wind environments were investigated through conducting a series of wind tunnel tests. A scaled solar wing system with solar panels connected by cables was manufactured. Vertical displacements of four panels were measured using laser displacement sensors. The tests showed that the largest mean displacements occurred in low-turbulence flow for wind directions 40 degrees-60 degrees. For fluctuating displacement, boundary-layer and grid-generated flows showed buffeting vibration for all wind directions, but the values were much larger in boundary-layer flows. When the wind direction was greater than 40 degrees, characteristic vibrations were found for low-turbulence flow, showing limited and instability vibration for a specific panel shape and wind direction. Mean and fluctuating displacements were highly dependent on panel shapes and wind environments. (C) 2020 American Society of Civil Engineers.