Overview
Instead of a fixed pitch, PVX.AI can calculate row-to-row spacing automatically from the sun position to eliminate inter-row shading. The shading parameters live inside the Build Layout window, so there is no separate settings step.
Prerequisites
At least one rack type and one PV area must be defined, plus a terrain surface if you want 3D placement.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Open Build Layout
On the Layout panel of the PVX.AI ribbon, click Build Layout. Select your table types and the alignment direction, then click Select Boundaries and pick the PV area or areas.
2. Set the terrain and spacing options
Enable Use 3D Terrain Mesh and enter the maximum north-south and east-west surface slope limits. Set the Horizontal Table Spacing for the gap between tables in a row.
3. Turn on Dynamic Pitch
In the Build section, switch on Dynamic Pitch. PVX.AI then calculates the row pitch from the sun position instead of using a fixed Pitch Distance.
4. Configure the shading parameters
Click the gear icon next to Dynamic Pitch to open the Shading Parameters flyout. Set the Date (for example December 21 for worst-case winter shading), the Start Hour and End Hour analysis window (defaults 10:00 and 14:00), and the Min Pitch and Max Pitch bounds for the calculated pitch (defaults 3.5 m and 5 m).
5. Run the layout and review
Run the layout. PVX.AI varies the row pitch within the Min and Max bounds to give zero or minimal inter-row shading for the configured sun angles, and each table displays its shadow projection.
Tips & Recommendations
- Dynamic pitch gives more efficient layouts on sloped terrain than a single fixed pitch.
- On north-facing slopes the pitch grows; Max Pitch caps how far.
- On south-facing slopes the pitch shrinks; Min Pitch protects service access.