Research on Non-Braced Photovoltaic Support with Hat-Shaped Inclined Beams and Double Columns

Traditional fixed-tilt photovoltaic (PV) support structures commonly employ inclined beams, double columns, and diagonal braces to resist and transfer horizontal loads. However, this conventional design is characterized by an excessive number of structural components, elevated steel consumption, and suboptimal installation efficiency. To address these limitations, this study proposes a novel unbraced double-column PV support system incorporating hat-shaped inclined beams and T-shaped connectors. The proposed configuration eliminates diagonal bracing while maintaining structural integrity through an efficient load-transfer mechanism, thereby achieving improved standardization, reduced steel consumption, and enhanced constructability. The structural performance of the proposed system was rigorously evaluated through full-scale load-bearing experiments and comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA). The global response, including ultimate load capacity, failure modes, and deformation characteristics, was comprehensively evaluated. The results demonstrate that the proposed system exhibits favorable mechanical behavior and sufficient load-carrying capacity under combined loading conditions. Furthermore, the finite element model was validated against experimental results, showing good agreement in terms of stiffness, deformation patterns, and ultimate response, thereby confirming its reliability for structural analysis.