Overview
Terrain-following trackers (TFT) let a tracker row bend at joints to follow the ground profile instead of sitting on a single plane. This guide covers building the tracker spec in PVX.AI.
Prerequisites
A photovoltaic module must be available in the database.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Create the tracker
In the Racks window, click Create Tracker and pick the Terrain Following card. Tracker Settings opens with an extra Terrain Following section.
2. Define the joint chain
Set Joint Gap Count (seeded to 4) and Joint Gap Size (default 1.0 m). Segment Distribution shows the modules per segment; click Edit to set that count manually, or Reset to auto. Set Place piles at joints and Piles per Segment (default 2).
3. Enter the mechanical constraints
Enter values as percent slope; the degree equivalent is shown live beside each field. Segment Break Angle is required (default about 6.10 %, or 3.49°). Motor Hinge Angle, Wing Total Slope and Segment Slope are optional.
4. Set the torque tube and height
Tick Model torque tube, then set Diameter, Top Gap and Bottom Gap. Set Reference Height (default 0.500 m), the design height of the lowest frame edge on flat terrain, choose the Motor mode (rigid or hinged), and click Save.
Tips & Recommendations
- Every TFT field has an info-icon hover explaining what it controls.
- Terrain-following specs show a Terrain Following badge in the rack list.
- Imperial (feet) drawings are fully supported.