Cheap Dual Flex Panel Mobile/Tilting Stand

[SolarOhio]

Here’s a super lightweight and cheap adjustable stand design that I use for 100w flex panel pairs. Each unit costs <$15 to make and weighs <2 lbs. The tilt/kickstand adjusts with a wing nut and bolt — it can go from about 25-80 degrees and also fold in to lay the whole thing flat. All non-moving joints are held with small screws. 3/4” schedule 40 PVC for the main frame. 1/2” section fits into 1” on the kickstand arm.

This has made it much easier to chase the sun around our tree-lined yard and maximize panel output at different times of the day. I think the same setup with a few modifications would be strong enough for glass panels.

 

[snoobler]

I've recommended this to several folks as it's a great way to make a deployable array for an RV or other mobile application.

Want to add that the best flexible panels:

1. are made by a company with longevity (for warranty considerations)
2. have an ETFE coating
3. have a 5+ year manufacturing warranty
4. have a 20+ year performance warranty

Flexible panels generally have notably lower reliability; however, the ETFE coating seems to make a very significant difference and is reflected in the warranty. Additionally, a temporary array that isn't sitting in the sun all day, every day should also have a notably longer service life.