Overview
In PVX.AI, you can create fixed mounting systems for your solar plant design. In the simple workflow the Rack Design block stays in Automatic mode, so PVX.AI computes the pile layout for you. This guide covers how to create a fixed rack that way.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Open the rack catalog
On the Layout panel of the PVX.AI ribbon, click Rack Design to open the Racks window, then click Create Fixed to open Fixed Settings.
2. Select a module
Choose a photovoltaic module from the PVX.AI catalog, or add a new one with New Module (you can import a PVsyst .PAN file there).
3. Set the Basic Design parameters
Enter a Name, pick the Pile Profile (Normal, C-Channel, I-Beam, or U-Channel) and Default Color, then set Module Orientation (Portrait or Landscape), the tilt Angle, Columns (modules across the table width), and Rows (module rows up the table height).
4. Set module spacing
In Module Place Design, set the Vertical Spacing and Horizontal Spacing between modules.
5. Check the computed pile layout
With the Rack Design block in Automatic mode, PVX.AI shows the resulting Number of Piles and Distance Between Piles. Set Height Bottom (ground clearance), review Height Top, and set Underground Pile Depth and Overhang Left / Overhang Right.
6. Save the rack
Click Save to store the rack in the catalog, ready for use in layout plans.
Tips & Recommendations
- Automatic mode is ideal for standard projects where quick rack creation is needed. Switch the Rack Design block to Manual when you need a custom pile layout.
- Set the Pile Profile to match the structure you will procure.
- Optimize the tilt angle for your site’s latitude.
- Create multiple rack types to use different configurations in different zones.