Patent Publication Number: US-2023139726-A1

Title: Transportable and multi configurable, modular power platforms

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION DATA 
     The present application claim benefit of co-pending U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 63/253,077, filed Oct. 6, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This present application relates to renewable energy systems using a surface mounted application, and more particularly, to transportable, customizable, multi-configurable, and/or surface mounted modular solar power platforms for on and off grid solar installation. The transportable, modular solar power platforms herein may be customizable, turnkey, portable, transportable, multi-configurable, and/or modular surface mounted solar power platforms (modular units) that may be installed temporarily or permanently on different types of earth surface conditions, ground, soil, and paved conditions, and other terrestrial terrain to achieve a desired power wattage depending on a desired power (kWh) output. 
     BACKGROUND 
     It is well known that alternative renewable energy resources are proven to be an important element in an overall energy plan for the off taker. Cost savings initiatives and a renewable and sustainable clean energy solution to lower the cost of energy (LCOE), is a critical factor as the cost of carbon based fuels and other fossil fuels are costly to use and continue to increase cost over time and these fossil fuels harm the environment and impact climate change. Grid parity has been achieved in large utility scale solar power plant installation, but not in distributed generation renewable energy applications. Solar (PV) energy, and energy storage systems (ESS) help recipients of this clean, renewable energy to load shift away from high rate tariffs and demand charges or be totally independent of the electrical grid. In order to produce sufficient usable and reusable clean energy from the sun, it is necessary to place one or more solar arrays in areas where they can capture the most solar radiation. 
     Conventional foundations and support structures required to install such solar arrays generally involve pre-development and engineering, geotechnical reports, environmental impact studies, site planning, grading, mobilization of heavy equipment, concrete, substantial procurement time and cost, installation time and cost, particularly for I beam steel piles, ballasted concrete blocks, pour in place cement piers or helical ground screw foundations used for surface mounted solar arrays, and involve substantial earth and project site disruption which impact the local environmental. Therefore, improved solar power platforms, support structures and foundations for solar arrays and methods for installing and/or using them would be useful, more economical and efficient and most beneficial to the environment. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present application is directed to alternative renewable energy systems using surface mounted applications, and more particularly, to transportable, customizable, multi-configurable, and/or surface mounted modular solar power platforms for grid connected and off grid solar installations. The transportable, modular solar power platforms herein may be customizable, turnkey, portable, transportable, multi-configurable, and/or modular surface mounted solar power platforms (modular units) that may be installed temporarily or permanently on different types of earth surface conditions, ground, soil, and paved conditions, and other terrestrial terrain to achieve a desired power wattage depending on a desired power (kWh) output. 
     A transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar power platform (modular units), according to the platform&#39;s systems and methods herein, may solve one or more problems associated with conventional or traditional surface mounted solar arrays, such as:
         Create methods and renewable energy system solutions in the solar industry downstream value chain for distributed generation and utility scale solar power markets to achieve a LCOE;   Develop economical and efficient surface mounted racking systems, simplify engineering, stream line pre-development, planning, permitting and inspection processes, while using lower cost of labor and modular installation methodologies and solutions that save time and money for surface mounted solar arrays, which may be useful to drive down a LCOE;   Provide expedited assembly and rapid deployment capability of surface mounted solar arrays for system installers and project developers using a less skilled and local workforce to benefit the local economy, which may be useful to achieve a LCOE;   Create a greater power (watts) density per surface footprint of a surface mounted solar array using fixed tilt, adjustable tilt, single axis or multiple axis tracker systems to achieve a LCOE;   Create minimal site disruption, minimal local environmental impact, and/or create sustainable and efficient construction methods and systematic processes for surface mounted solar arrays to achieve LCOE;   Increase energy power production (kWh) by 20% or more compared to conventional fixed tilt surface mounted solar arrays, when configured as a transportable, modular solar power platform hosting single axis tracker components with solar modules or multiple axis solar tracker components with solar modules.       

     Transportable, modular solar power platforms (modular units) in accordance with the systems and methods herein do not require the use of concrete piers, ballasted concrete blocks, typical pile driven steel foundations or even ground screws that other surface mount racking systems generally require. There is no welding or cutting steel needed on an installation site. The use of heavy industrial onsite equipment, machinery, and large trucks is not required. Only the use of simple, low cost, portable hand-held power tools and a small portable power generator are needed. 
     A transportable, modular solar power platform (modular units), according to the systems and methods herein, may reduce the need for pre-development, geotechnical reports or environmental impact studies, unnecessary procurement time and cost, and installation time and cost, particularly compared to conventional surface mounted solar arrays, and may decrease earth and project site disruption and soil erosion. A transportable, modular solar power platform (modular units) may reduce project site logistical costs and transportation of concrete and the use of fossil fuels for heavy industrial onsite equipment and machinery and it helps to lower the overall cost of clean, renewable energy. 
     Conventional surface mounted solar arrays require a geo-technical report during the pre-development phase or even costly environmental impact studies, which may stall installation and increase costs and/or require site specific engineering and design all prior to a conventional surface mount racking system is ready for permitting. Typical ballasted surface mounted solar racking systems and pour in place cement piers rely on added concrete weight to secure the support structure and resist wind uplift, which requires heavy off-site trucks to deploy the cement, or uses pre-cast ballasted concrete blocks driven to project site. This installation process using cement also requires an additional special inspection. 
     A conventional or traditional pile driven foundation surface mount system or a system using helical ground screws requires the use of costly on-site industrial machines to deploy the steel foundations or screws with technical skilled certified labor driving these foundations up to fourteen feet (4.3 m) or greater into the ground to support the solar array above the surface of the ground. 
     In accordance with the systems and methods herein, a transportable, modular solar power platform (modular units) may use one or more small, inexpensive and easy to install toggle anchors attached to a rod and/or cable (as an earth anchoring foundation) to secure the transportable modular solar power platform beneath the surface in which it rests. No heavy pile driving equipment is used—only hand held tools for installation. Instead, toggle anchors with rod and/or cable attach to base plates (shoe plates) when installed to proper depth through access holes in the baseplate of the power platforms and become the foundational support mechanism to secure transportable, modular solar power platforms (modular units) to any earth surface, ground, soil condition or terrestrial terrain. 
     A transportable, modular solar power platform (modular unit) according to the systems and methods herein uses this toggle anchor with rod and/or cable application as an earth-anchoring foundation, which enables less skilled local labor (at a lower cost of labor) to install a completely turnkey modular power platform unit using only handheld power tools and a portable percussion hammer and small power generator. The use of an inexpensive and easy to install toggle anchor with rod and/or cable as an anchoring foundation, eliminates the need for pre-development geotechnical reports, environmental impact studies, and multiple traditional permit inspection requirements on site during construction by facilitating a real-time soil condition field vertical and lateral load lift (tension) test, e.g., including wind and seismic load requirements, conducted during the real time installation of the power platforms (modular units) to pass geotechnical and structural engineering specifications and local permitting and to measure the load tension results of the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable to assure compliance requirements are achieved with applicable local building codes and regulations. 
     Using the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable application as the foundation, an installer may perform a credible and permittable vertical and lateral load lift (tension) test in real time soil conditions measuring the tension capacity of the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable, e.g., to exceed 1.5 times the worst case design load capacity and/or as otherwise required by the authority holding jurisdiction (AHJ) for the project site, while the modular solar power platform unit is being installed. This load lift (tension) test may be conducted by the installer in real time using a Load Tension Device (LTD) including a come along hoist, a manual or automated winch or crank to add tension to the toggle anchor with rod and or cable during testing, and a device, e.g., a LED gauge, to measure the results in the field by the installer. The LED gauge may also upload the load test data results in real time to the cloud, e.g., via a WAN/LAN application or (SaaS), and/or otherwise communicated via a wireless and/or other communications network. The LTD may include a GPS device, which may be used to verify each load lift (tension) test performed on the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable tested. 
     Optionally, the LTD may include a controller with associated software and/or hardware that may provide one or more of the following features. For example, pre-determined optimal tension or load parameters may be programmed into the device, e.g., such that the cable and/or rod of the toggle anchor is pulled to the predetermined tension via the device to pass required load requirement. Once the desired load is achieved, the device may record the achieved load, relieve the tension and/or associated load achieved with operator identification. Optionally, additional information may recorded with the achieved load and/or other test data, e.g., a time stamp identifying the time and/or date of the test, GPS coordinates of the anchor associated with each test, operator identification, and the like, all of which may be downloaded to a portable electronic device at the installation site and/or uploaded to a remote data repository for access and review, e.g., at an office electronic device at the installation site or to one or more off-site electronic devices. 
     In one embodiment, a graphical user interface may be provided on the electronic device where the data is stored and/or received that may facilitate confirming that all of the installed toggle anchors with rods and/or cables have been properly tested. For example. the electronic device may include a display on which a visual array may be displayed that includes anchor points visually represented in software allowing a reviewer to see all of the stored data associated to the anchors. Cells of the array may also be conditionally formatted so that any discrepancy between load achieved and desired engineering loads are readily identified and may be corrected in the field. For example, all anchors that have been load tested and passed may be presented in a first color, e.g., green, while, anchors that have not yet been tested and/or that have failed may be presented in a different color, e.g., gray for untested anchors, red for anchors that failed the load test, and the like. Thus, a quick visual inspection of the array on the display may allow a reviewer to determine the status of the installation and/or immediately identify any problems. Additional data and information such as labor productivity may also be developed. This load lift (tension) test data may then be easily accessible and verifiable by the structural engineer of record (EOR) without the need for an onsite field review and to review and verify the load test results. After verification, the EOR can download the load test data to the AHJ. 
     The Load Test Device may be integrated or otherwise mounted to one or more support or extension legs of the modular unit, e.g., such that, when activated, the Load Test Device may automatically apply a preset tension to the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable. The resulting real-time soil condition load test data may then be communicated to give the EOR, permit jurisdictions, AHJs, municipals, customers, energy off takers, investors, and/or the installer complete confidence under applicable code requirements that the transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar power platform (modular unit) is secured to the ground with a stabilized foundation beneath the surface, e.g., to ensure that the resulting foundation exceeds the AHJs worst case load requirements by 1.5 times the design load required. 
     This real-time soil condition load testing removes other variables and uncertainties that other conventional surface mounted racking systems leave unanswered because the load test results are actually conducted in real time and not calculated results from a geotechnical report conducted months in advance. Testing in real time soil conditions is the preferred method of load testing verse calculated data for AHJs. Load testing in real time soil conditions also improves reliability of site conditions, avoids unforeseen obstacles underneath surface, speeds time to permitting, time to install, final inspection, verification of load test results and project cost savings. 
     Gaining power density on installation sites with challenging uneven terrain, unforeseen obstacles underneath surface, awkward boundaries or minimal space available for the conventional surface mount solar array are real problems for an installer and can cause financial trouble or costly project delays, which could be avoided using a modular solar power platform (modular units) with toggle anchor with rod and/or cable as the foundation. Transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar power platforms can host fix tilt and adjustable tilt configurations, including single axis tracker components with solar modules or multiple axis tracker components working concurrently and holding a plurality of solar modules. Axis sun trackers are proven to improve power production by as much as 20% over conventional fixed tilt surface mounted solar arrays. 
     A transportable, multi-configurable modular solar power platform may easily be deployed or unassembled, then re-deployed elsewhere without using heavy equipment or on site industrial machines. For example, a mining operation, needing to lift and shift a capital asset to a new location, can now remove the renewable energy capital asset to another location. The transportable modular solar power platform with toggle anchor rod and/or cable may provide a turnkey lift and shift application not achievable using conventional surface mounted solar arrays with steel I beam or screw foundations because these conventional surface mounted solar arrays leave behind vast amounts of material in the ground and or will require much logistical effort at a cost to remove completely. 
     The costs and time for removing a conventional solar array is typically about the same as the cost of installing it, while leaving behind material foreign to the project site that may erode or corrode the site over time, causing a negative environmental impact that may last for years. The impact of any material left behind in subterranean conditions may be tremendously harmful to the local environment. This requires installers to spend time and effort and increases the cost of the solar array installation and removal after the life of the conventional solar array system. 
     A transportable, modular solar power platform may include multiple independently power adjustable, telescoping extension legs and shoe plates (e.g., twelve to eighteen inches (30-45 cm) in diameter) that are used to support the weight of the modular units while generating energy. These extension legs may be raised or lowered using a handheld impact tool or a motor that turns a mechanical crank or other actuator mechanism inside the extension leg frame. This helps the ease and speed of assembling the modular unit. Independently power adjusted extension legs may reduce site preparation and grading requirements and, when combined with a Load Test Device, may assist in the installation and load test of the toggle anchor, with rod and/or cable. 
     The size of base plates (shoe plates) may vary depending on the weight of modular units and/or the soil conditions below the shoe plate. These shoe plates may distribute the modular unit&#39;s weight equally (e.g., about two hundred pounds (91 kg) per leg) to avoid any disruption to the soil conditions beneath the modular unit. 
     At any time, the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable components may be clipped and the entire modular unit may be reloaded onto a transport flatbed truck or trailer and relocated to a new installation site. Only the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable would remain subterranean. Optionally, the toggle anchor with rod and/or cable may also be pulled out of the ground entirely by surpassing its vertical and lateral load capacity thus removing all the anchor foundation components and leaving nothing behind on the installation site. Consequently, the environmental impact of a modular solar power platform when compared to present conventional solar array systems and methods may be minimal and/or inconsequential. 
     Hosting or supporting the weight of renewable energy components such as a string inverter or energy storage batteries are not achievable using conventional surface mounted solar arrays with pile driven foundations because there is no support structure frame for the components to be mounted to. Instead, installers need to pour an independent concrete pad (separate from the conventional surface mounted solar array) to support these components. However, the transportable, multi-configurable and modular solar power platforms of the systems herein may include a steel frame uniquely and structurally engineered to support, mount, or ballast the weight of solar inverters, energy storage systems, and/or components and other material/components as needed. 
     In accordance with one embodiment, a system is provided that includes one or more transportable, customizable and/or multi-configurable modular solar power platforms, each having a support frame, multiple independently, power adjustable telescoping extension support legs and shoe plates, multiple toggle anchor with rod and/or cable foundation components and a support frame to hold a plurality of solar modules, solar inverters, and energy storage systems and components either in fixed tilt or an adjustable position or using single axis tracker components with solar modules and or multi axis solar tracker technology, with solar modules either hingedly connected or clamped to the support frame. A plurality of solar modules may be mounted on the support frame to produce a single modular solar power platform (modular unit), wherein a selected tilt angle is either pre-chosen or adjusted on site to increase the efficiency of the solar modules. Extension support legs, arms and back stays are used to keep each solar module frame at the selected angle or used to support the frame hosting the single or multi axis tracking system components, string solar inverters and energy storage components. 
     Optionally, the telescoping extension support legs may be independently power adjustable, e.g., using a mechanical actuator encased in or otherwise carried by the support legs, e.g., to raise and lower each modular unit for variable surface conditions or to raise or lower the tilt angle of the solar modules to maximize the sun&#39;s radiation. Toggle anchor with rod and/or cable components are used as the modular unit&#39;s anchoring foundation. One or more transportable modular solar power platforms may be vertically stacked (placed plum together) such that a plurality of modular units may then be transported to a selected installation site or one or more transportable modular solar power platform units may be placed over a trailer or flatbed truck with or without solar modules attached to support frame and transported from one location to another. 
     Once at the site, the modular solar power platform units are lifted from a transport vehicle and placed at their desired location or the modular unit extension support legs are lowered to surface and the independently power adjusted legs are raised to position. The truck or trailer may then be easily removed from under the modular unit. The extension support legs may then be adjusted individually for each modular solar power platform unit, e.g., if the surface is not level. Multiple toggle anchors with rods and/or cables are installed and load lift (tension) testing is performed concurrent in real time soil conditions with the modular units being installed. Multiple toggle anchors with rods and/or cables are measured using a simple portable Load Test Device, which may be mounted successively to each extension support leg (or alternatively incorporated into each extension support leg as one component), to verify building code and local AHJ vertical and lateral load requirements and the engineer of record (EOR) structural calculation requirements in a real-time soil condition test. Rapid deployment and load testing may thus be achieved using the systems and methods herein. The modular solar power platforms may then be interconnected to the grid to achieve the power output (kWh) required for any given installation site. 
     Alternatively, the transportable, modular solar power platform units may be shipped to an installation site with prefabricated components ready for assembly and final set up. Installation is achieved by connecting all the modular unit support frame components together using only hand-held power impact tools using simple fasteners, e.g., rivets, nuts, or bolts, and the like, to secure components together or using a portable handheld clinching tool that is used to clinch the steel components together and remove the need for any fasteners. For example, clinching may add rigidity, durability and bonded strength to a transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar power platform. 
     The transportable, multi-configurable modular solar power platform installation including a plurality of solar panels and load testing process may be achieved in less than one hour per modular unit using a three or four-person installation crew. Thus, relatively rapid deployment may be achieved with tremendous cost savings and limited to no impact on the local environment using the systems and methods herein. 
     In accordance with another embodiment, a system is provided for mounting a modular support platform for one or more solar panels relative to ground at an installation site that includes an extension support leg comprising one end mounted to a frame of the modular support platform and a second end; a shoe plate attached to the second end of the extension support leg comprising an opening therethrough; and an anchor comprising: a) an anchor portion comprising a penetrating end and a socket end opposite the penetrating end; b) a toggle portion pivotally coupled to the anchor portion between the penetrating end and the socket end, the anchor portion movable between a delivery orientation wherein the socket portion is disposed adjacent the anchor portion and a deployed orientation wherein the toggle portion is oriented transversely relative to the anchor portion; and c) an elongate member, e.g., a rod and/or cable, coupled to the toggle portion having a length sufficient such that an exposed end of the elongate member extends from the ground when the anchor is directed into the ground to direct the anchor portion from the delivery orientation to the deployed orientation, the exposed end receivable through the opening in the shoe plate. The system may also include a rigid driving member including a first end receivable in the socket end and a second driving end for directing the anchor into the ground in the delivery orientation; and a locking mechanism for securing the exposed end of the elongate member relative to the shoe plate and apply a desired tensile force between the exposed end and the anchor portion directed into the ground. 
     In accordance with another embodiment, a method is provided for securing a modular solar panel platform including a support frame and a plurality of extension legs including shoe plates at an installation site that includes providing an anchor comprising an anchor portion and a toggle portion pivotally coupled to the anchor portion, and an elongate member, e.g., a rod and/or cable, coupled to the toggle portion; directing the anchor into the ground at the installation site such that an exposed end of the elongate member extends from the ground; pulling the exposed end to deploy the anchor portion; coupling the exposed end to a shoe plate of a support leg to secure the support frame relative to the ground at the installation site; and applying a desired tensile force between the exposed end and the anchor to test the installation under real time soil conditions. 
     Other aspects and features of the present inventions will become apparent from the following description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In the accompanying drawings: 
         FIG.  1    is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a transportable modular solar platform; 
         FIG.  2    is a rear view of the transportable modular solar platform of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is a perspective view of the transportable modular solar platform of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a side view of the transportable modular solar platform of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  5    shows an exemplary embodiment of an independently power adjustable extension leg and shoe plate that may be provided as a component to a transportable modular solar power platform, such as that shown in  FIGS.  1 - 4   ; 
         FIG.  6    is a side view of the modular solar power platform of  FIGS.  1 - 4    placed on variable elevation terrain; 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a toggle anchor, with rod and/or cable that may be used as a foundation to anchor a modular solar power platform to any surface condition or terrestrial terrain; 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 D  show an exemplary method for delivering and deploying a toggle anchor with rod and/or cable within the ground for securing a modular solar power platform to the ground; 
         FIG.  9 A  is a perspective view of a transportable modular solar platform showing an exemplary configuration of toggle anchors with rod and/or cable attached to the platform for securing the platform to the ground at a site; 
         FIG.  9 B  is a perspective view of a transportable modular solar platform showing another exemplary configuration of toggle anchors with rod and/or cable attached to the modular unit; 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar platform with solar panels mounted on the platform, and toggle anchors with rods and/or cables attached to shoe plates of the modular units to secure the modular units to the ground at a site; 
         FIG.  10 A  is a detail showing a method for securing an extension leg of a modular unit to a toggle anchor with rod and/or cable deployed within the ground below the extension leg. 
         FIG.  10 B  is a detail showing a motorized load tension device that may be provided on each extension support leg to perform a load lift (tension) test for each anchor with rod and/or cable in real time soil conditions. 
         FIGS.  11 A- 11 E  are various views of an exemplary embodiment of single axis tracker components with east and west facing functionality hosted by a transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar platform in accordance with the systems and methods herein; 
         FIG.  11 F  is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of multiple axis tracker components with east and west facing functionality and hosted by a transportable, multi-configurable, modular solar platform in accordance with the systems and methods herein; 
         FIGS.  12 A- 12 D  are front views of a transportable modular solar platform with a plurality of solar modules stacked flat and extension legs swiveled into position ready for shipment to an installation site; 
         FIG.  13 A  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a transportable modular solar platform with a plurality of solar modules stacked flat and extension legs swiveled into position; 
         FIGS.  13 B- 13 D  are perspective, rear, and top views, respectively, showing a plurality of vertically stacked modular solar platform units with a plurality of solar modules loaded onto a transport vehicle ready for shipment to an installation site; and 
         FIGS.  14 - 15 J  show an exemplary method for assembling and/or installing a modular solar power platform (modular unit). 
         FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  are perspective and side views, respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a transportable, multi-configurable modular solar power platform with fixed solar panels mounted to the platform. 
         FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  show an example of a support platform supporting a plurality of solar panels and including a reflective membrane. 
         FIG.  18    shows an example of a frame for a solar panel platform system that includes a plurality of weights on each support leg to provide a ballasted support to stabilize the frame. 
         FIGS.  19 A and  19 B  show an example of a support platform supporting a plurality of solar panels and including a seasonal tilt mechanism. 
         FIG.  19 C  is a detail of the support platform of  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B  showing a plurality of scissor jacks linked together to provide the tilt mechanism. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Turning to the drawings,  FIGS.  1 - 4    show an exemplary embodiment of a modular, multi-configurable solar power platform unit  10  that includes a frame  12  supported by a plurality of legs  20  and a rack  14  for mounting one or more solar panels  50  (not shown, see, e.g.,  FIG.  10   ). As described elsewhere herein, one or more toggle anchors with rod and/or cable (not shown) may be attached to the frame  12  and/or legs  20  to secure the modular unit  10 , and consequently the solar panels  50  mounted to the support frame  14 , relative to the ground at an installation site, e.g., to provide an earth-anchoring foundation that may be used to substantially permanently or removably install the solar panels at a desired location. 
     Generally, the frame  12  includes front and rear chasses or struts  12   a,    12   b  coupled together by mid chasses or struts  12   c  to provide a substantially rigid structure generally defining a plane. Similarly, the rack  14  includes a plurality of elongate rails  14   a  coupled by a plurality of elongate supports  14   b  to which the one or more solar panels may be mounted. The rack  14  may be fixedly mounted to the support frame  14 , e.g., at a predefined inclined angle, or may be adjustable, e.g., manually or using a motorized actuator, to change the inclined angle of the rack  14 , as described elsewhere herein. 
     For example, as shown, lower ends  14   b - 1  of the supports  14   b  may be mounted directly to the front strut  12   a  of the frame  12 , e.g., at fixed or pivotable connection points, while upper ends  14   b - 2  of the supports  14   b  may be coupled to one or more back braces  16  that secure the upper ends  14   b - 2  spaced above the rear strut  12   b.  In one embodiment, the braces  16  may be substantially permanently fixed relative to the frame  12  and rack  14 . Alternatively, the braces  16  may be adjustable, e.g., to vary a length of the braces  16  and consequently the tilt angle of the rack  14  relative to the frame  12 . For example, each brace  16  may include telescoping tubes, G-rails, or other elongate members that may be slidable or otherwise movable relative to one another to adjust their length. Such members may be adjustable manually and then secured at a desired length or may be coupled to a motor or other actuator (not shown), e.g., such that the length may be adjusted remotely and/or automatically, e.g., as part of a tracking system, as described elsewhere herein. 
     Alternatively, the braces  16  may be removable and a kit including a plurality of braces having different lengths may be provided, e.g., such that one set of braces  16  may be selected and mounted between the rack  14  and frame  12  to set the tilt angle as desired for a particular installation. If the rack  14  is adjustable, the lower ends  14   b - 2  of the supports  14   b  may be pivotally coupled to the frame  12 , e.g., using one or more hinges and the like (not shown). 
     It will be appreciated that the components of the platform  10  may be formed using conventional materials and methods, e.g., formed from metal such as steel or aluminum, plastics, or composites, having desired cross-sections or configurations. For example, the struts  12   a,    12   b,  rails  14   a,  and supports  14   b  may be elongate “C” channel members, tubular beams, I-beams, and the like, formed by roll forming, breaking, extrusion, casting, and the like. The components may be attached together using one or more conventional methods, for example, using one or more fasteners, e.g., screws, rivets, bolts, and the like, and/or directly by clinching, welding, bonding with adhesive, and the like. 
     The legs  20  may be attached to the front and rear struts  12   a,    12   b  such that the legs  20  extend downwardly or otherwise orthogonal to the plane of the frame  12 . In an exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG.  5   , each leg  20  generally includes an upper end  20   a  including a mounting bracket  22  for securing the upper end  20   a  to the frame  12 , and a lower end  20   b  including a plate or shoe  24 , e.g., attached to the leg  20  to define a relatively large area lower contact surface that extends substantially transversely, e.g., horizontally, for placement against a mounting surface, e.g., the ground at an installation site. For example, the area of the contact surface of the shoe  24  may be set based on the weight of modular units, soil conditions below the shoe plate, and/or other parameters, e.g., to ensure that the shoe plates sufficiently distribute the modular unit&#39;s weight equally to avoid any disruption to the soil conditions beneath the modular unit. 
     Optionally, the leg  20  may be adjustable, e.g., to change the distance between the mounting bracket  22  and the shoe  24 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  5   , the leg  20  may include an outer member  26   a  and an inner member  26   b,  e.g., tubular members, C-rails, and the like, that telescope or otherwise slide relative to one another, e.g., with the inner member  26   b  sliding at least partially into the outer member  26   b.  The leg  20  may include one or more connectors, e.g., a pin  26   c  and corresponding set of holes (not shown) for receiving the pin  26   c,  for fixing the leg  20  at a desired length. Alternatively, a mechanical system may be provided, e.g., including a rack and pinion, motorized track, and/or other mechanism (not shown), that may be actuated to adjust the length. In the embodiment shown, the shoe  24  includes a post that may be received in or otherwise attached to the lower end  20   b  and may include one or more mating fasteners, e.g., pin  24   a,  for removably attaching the shoe  24  to the lower end  20   b.  Alternatively, the shoe  24  may be substantially permanently attached to the lower end  20   b,  e.g., by one or more fasteners, e.g., screws, rivets, bolts, and the like, clinching, welding, bonding with adhesive, and the like. 
     In another alternative, the upper end  20   a  of the leg  20  may be substantially permanently attached to the frame  12 , e.g., attached to the struts  12   a,    12   b  by one or more fasteners, e.g., screws, rivets, bolts, and the like, welding, bonding, and the like. In addition or alternatively, the legs  20  may be pivotally attached to the frame  12 , e.g., such that the legs  20  may be rotated between a retracted or storage position, e.g., extending substantially parallel to the struts  12   a,    12   b,  and an extended or installation position, e.g., extending substantially perpendicular to the struts  12   a,    12   b.    
     For example,  FIGS.  12 A- 12 D  show an example of a frame  112  including a plurality of legs  120  that are pivotable between a storage position ( FIG.  12 D ) and an installation position ( FIG.  12 A ). Generally, each leg  120  includes an outer member  126   a  that is pivotally coupled to a strut  112   a  at a joint  128 , an inner member  126   a  extendable from the outer member  126   a,  and a shoe plate  124 , as described further elsewhere herein. To store each leg  120  from the installation position shown in  FIG.  12 A , the shoe plate  124  may be removed (e.g., by removing a pin or other connector, not shown), and the inner member  126   b  may be retracted at least partially into the outer member  126   a,  as shown in  FIG.  12 B . As shown in  FIG.  12 C , the outer member  126   a  may then be rotated until positioned along the strut  112   a  in the storage position, as shown in  FIG.  12 D . Optionally, the legs  120  and/or strut  112   a  may include one or more locking features for securing the legs  120  in the storage position. The legs  120  may be returned to the installation position simply by reversing the process. 
     Turning to  FIG.  6   , an exemplary installation is shown in which the frame  12  is oriented substantially horizontally and the rack  14  and solar panel(s)  90  are tilted at an acute tilt angle relative to the frame  12 . As shown, the ground  92  is uneven and, consequently, the front leg  20 ( 1 ) has been retracted to a relatively shorter length and the rear leg  20 ( 2 ) has been extended to a relatively longer length to ensure that the lower surfaces of the shoes  24  are positioned securely against the surface of the ground  92  and the frame  12  is substantially horizontal. Optionally, the frame  12  may include a motorized self-leveling system (not shown) that may automatically adjust the lengths of the legs  20  to orient the frame  12  substantially horizontally. 
     During installation, the frame  12  and/or legs  20  may be secured relative to the ground  92 , using one or more anchor assemblies, e.g., including a toggle anchor  30  with rod and/or cable, as shown in  FIGS.  7  and  8 A- 8 D . For example, turning to  FIG.  7   , an exemplary embodiment of a toggle anchor  30  is shown that may be used in conjunction with one or more elongate rods  40  and/or cables (not shown). Generally, the toggle anchor  30  includes an anchor or foot portion  32  pivotally coupled to a bolt portion  34  at an intermediate location between first and second ends  32   a,    32   b  of the foot portion  32 . The first end  32   a  of the foot portion  32  may include a tapered, pointed, and/or other shaped tip to facilitate advancement into the ground  92 , and the second end  32   b  includes a socket  33  for removably receiving a rod  40   a  therein, e.g., as shown in  FIG.  8 A . 
     The bolt portion  34  also includes a socket  35  for receiving a rod, cable, or other elongate member  40   b  therein, also as shown in  FIG.  8 A . In one embodiment, a cable  40   b  is substantially permanently attached to the bolt portion  34 , e.g., by looping one end of the cable  40   b  through holes in the socket  35  and permanently attaching the end to an adjacent portion of the cable  40   b,  e.g., by welding, crimping a sleeve over the cable  40   b,  and the like. In another embodiment, an anchoring rod  40   b  may be substantially permanently received in the socket  33 , e.g., by one or more of welding, fusing, bonding with adhesive, interference fit, and the like. In a further alternative, the sockets  33 ,  35  may be sized to slidably receive anchoring rods  40  therein. Alternatively, the sockets  33 ,  35  and/or anchoring rods  40  may include threads or other features (not shown) for removably securing anchoring rods  40  in the sockets  33 ,  35 . 
     The bolt portion  34  may pivot relative to the foot portion  32  between a delivery or low profile orientation where the bolt socket  35  is disposed adjacent the foot socket  33 , e.g., as shown in  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B , to facilitate introduction of the toggle anchor  30 , and a deployed orientation where the bolt portion extends transversely, e.g., substantially perpendicular to a length of the foot portion  32 , e.g., as shown in  FIG.  8 D . As best seen in  FIG.  7   , the foot portion  32  may include a recess  36  along one side that extends partially between the first and second ends  32   a,    32   b  for receiving the bolt portion  34  in the low profile orientation, e.g., to minimize a profile of the toggle anchor  30  during advancement into the ground. 
     During installation, a driving rod  40   a  may be inserted, e.g., threaded, into the socket  33  and the bolt portion  34  is positioned in the low profile orientation shown in  FIG.  8 A  with a cable  40   b  attached to the socket  35  extending substantially parallel to the rod  40   a.  Alternatively, the cable  40   b  may be replaced with a rigid anchoring rod, similar to the driving rod  40   a.  The anchor  30  may then be directed into the ground  92  at a desired location relative to the frame  12 , e.g., using handheld tools, e.g., a portable percussion hammer, to drive the driving rod  40   a,  and consequently, the toggle anchor  30  and cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod), a desired depth into the ground  92  with a second end of the driving rod  40   a  and cable  40   b  remaining exposed outside the ground  92 . Once the target depth is reached, the driving rod  40   a  is unthreaded and/or otherwise removed from the socket  33  in the foot portion  32 , as shown in  FIG.  8 B , and out of the ground  92 . Then, as shown in  FIG.  8 C , the exposed second end of the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod) is pulled to cause the foot portion  32  to engage with the surrounding soil and pivot to the deployed orientation, e.g., substantially perpendicular to the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod), as shown in  FIG.  8 D . Once the anchor  30  is properly deployed, the exposed end of the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod) may extend out of the ground a desired distance. Optionally, any undesired length of the exposed end of the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod) protruding from the ground may be cut off or otherwise removed. 
     The exposed end of the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod) may be attached to the frame  12  in a desired manner to secure the frame relative to the ground  92 . Alternatively, if an anchoring rod is used instead of the cable  40   b,  a cable may be attached to the exposed end of the anchoring rod and attached to the frame  12 . For example, as shown in  FIGS.  10 - 1 C , the cable  40   b  (or anchoring rod) may be inserted through the shoe  24  and coupled to the leg  20 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  9 A , the frame  12  may include a plurality of horizontal cables  18  extending between the struts  12   a,    12   b  in a diagonal arrangement such that pairs of cables  18  intersect at locations  19 . Toggle anchors  30  (shown schematically) may be driven into the ground below the intersection locations  19  and cables  38  may be attached to the exposed cable or anchoring rod (not shown) and the locations  19 . In another alternative, shown in  FIG.  9 B , toggle anchors  30  may be driven into the ground at locations below the struts  12   a,    12   b  of the frame  12 , and cables  38  may be attached between the exposed anchoring rods (not shown) and the struts  12   a,    12   b.    
     Turning to  FIG.  10   , the toggle anchors  30  may be driven into the ground at locations below one or more of the extension legs  20  and the exposed ends of the cables  40   b  (or anchoring rods) may be attached to the shoes  24  and/or to the extension legs  20 . For example,  FIGS.  10 A  shows an exemplary installation method for securing the shoe  24 , and consequently, the extension leg  20 , relative to a toggle anchor  30  deployed below the leg  20 . As best seen in  FIG.  5   , the shoe  24  includes a horizontal shoe plate  25  including one or more holes, e.g., a hole  25   a,  adjacent the leg  20  through which the exposed end of the cable  40  may be inserted after delivering the anchor  30 . A fastener  42  may be advanced over the exposed end  41  of the rod  40  and engaged with the shoe  24  to apply a desired tension on the cable or rod  40 . For example, the fastener  42  may include a ratchet or other one-way mechanism (not shown) that may allow the fastener  42  to be advanced downwardly over the cable or rod  40  while preventing upward removal. Alternatively, if a rod is used instead of a cable for the anchor member  40 , the fastener  42  and rod  40  may include cooperating threads (not shown) that allow the fastener  42  to be threaded over the exposed end  41  of the cable  40  until the fastener  42  engages the shoe  24 . 
     Once the fastener  42  contacts the shoe plate  25 , any further advancement and/or retraction of the cable or rod  40  applies a tensile force along the cable or rod  40  between the anchor  30  and the shoe plate  25 . Thus, the fastener  42  maybe advanced (e.g., ratcheted or threaded) relative to the cable or rod  40 , as needed, to remove any slack and/or apply a desired tension pulling upwardly on the cable or rod  40 . 
     Optionally, the second end of the cable or rod  40  may include a loop  43  or other feature that may be engaged with the leg  20  to further attach the cable  40 . For example, the leg  20  may include one or more pins extending outwardly (not shown) over which the loop  43  may be placed once the fastener  42  is advanced to a desired distance. 
     Turning to  FIG.  10 B , before securing the cable or rod  40  to the leg  20  and/or shoe  24 , a load lift (tension) test may be performed to ensure that the toggle anchor  30  and cable or rod  40  satisfy engineering, regulatory, and/or other requirements to provide an earth-anchoring foundation for the modular unit  10 . In one embodiment, a single (or multiple) portable load test device  60  may be provided that may be used to test each anchor  30  and cable or rod  40  during installation. Alternatively, each extension leg  20  and/or shoe  24  may include an integral load test device (not shown), e.g., temporarily or permanently mounted to each extension leg  20 . As shown in  FIG.  10 B , the load test device  60  includes a housing  62  shaped to be positioned around and/or otherwise adjacent the extension support leg  20  on the shoe plate  25  including one or more handles  62   a,  e.g., to facilitate carrying and/or position the device  60  such that the device  60  may be coupled to the cable or rod  40  to automatically test the anchor  30  and cable or rod  40 . The load test device  60  may include a motorized actuator, e.g., lead screw  64  carrying a hook  64   a  or other element that may receive a loop  43  of the cable or rod  40  thereon, e.g., to pull upwardly on the cable or rod  40  to apply tension to the anchor  30  deployed below the extension leg  20  as the hook  64   a  is directed upwardly along the lead screw  64 . 
     In addition, the load test device  60  may include a controller, e.g., including one or more processors and/or memory (not shown), a user interface  66 , and, optionally, a communication interface  68 . For example, the load test device  60  may include an input device  66   a,  e.g., including one or more buttons, knobs, keypad, and the like, allowing a user to activate the device  60  and/or control operation of the lead screw  64 , e.g., to set a force applied to the cable or rod  40 . In addition, the device  60  may include an output device  66   b,  e.g., a display that may present information to the user. In one embodiment, the user interface  60  may include a touchscreen (not shown) that may allow a user to present one or more menus and/or graphical interface that allows the user select information, set parameters, and/or otherwise control operation of the device  60 . The optional communication interface  68  may include a data port, e.g., such that the user may couple an external electronic device, e.g., portable computer, tablet, phone, flash drive, etc., to the device  60 , e.g., to receive data and/or control operation of the device  60 . In addition or alternatively, the communication interface  68  may include a wireless communications device, e.g., transmitter and/or receiver for transmitting data to and/or receiving instructions from a remote location, e.g., via a local wireless network, a telecommunications network, and the like. In another option, the device  60  may include clock and/or GPS device (not shown) such that the controller may associate a time stamp, GPS coordinates, and/or other information with test results obtained using the device  60 , as described elsewhere herein. 
     During use, the load test device  60  may be placed on the shoe plate  25  and mechanically coupled to the cable and/or rod  40  extending from ground, e.g., by placing a loop  43  around the hook  64   a  and activated, e.g., by pressing a button or other actuator  66   a,  such that the motorized mechanism  64  automatically applies a predetermined tension to the anchor  30 . In an exemplary embodiment, the controller and motorized mechanism may apply a present tension to the anchor  30  and cable or rod  40 , e.g., 1.5 times the design load for the modular unit  10  supported by the extension leg  20 . Thus, the load test device  60  may automatically confirm under real-time soil conditions that the anchor  30  with rod and/or cable  40  satisfies the applicable code and/or other requirements for the modular unit  10  for securing the modular unit to the ground  92 . The resulting load data, optionally along with other information, e.g., a time stamp, GPS coordinates, operator identifier, and the like may be stored in memory of the device  60  and/or communicated externally, e.g., to a device coupled to the data port  68  and/or transmitted wirelessly. 
     Upon completion of the test, the hook  64   a  may automatically return to its lower position to remove the tension load, and the loop  43  may be removed from the hook  64   a.  The cable or rod  40  may then be secured to the extension leg  20  and/or shoe  24 , e.g., using a fastener (not shown) advanced over the cable or rod  40  against the shoe plate  25  over the hole  25   a  and/or securing the loop  43  over a pin (also not shown) on the extension leg  20 , as described elsewhere herein. 
     In an alternative embodiment, a manual load test device (not shown) may be provided. For example, the load device may include a tripod or other base to which a come-along hoist or other actuator is mounted. The user may couple the cable or rod  40  to the actuator, and manually apply the tension. The load test device may include a device that measures the tension and provides an output to the user, e.g., a mechanical or electronic scale. 
     This method may be repeated for each base plate (shoe plate)  20 , thereby securing the modular platform  10  relative to the ground  92  using the anchors  30 . Optionally, as the anchor foundations  30  are utilized to secure the platform  10  to the ground  92 , each anchor  30  may be tensioned independently to set the binding/toggle mechanism and obtain a tensioning value that may be recorded by the installer. This tensioning event may occur in real time soil conditions, and the data for each may be captured in a non-destructive manner while seating the anchors  30  using an appropriate tension to specified load conditions in real time soil conditions. This data may be made available to personnel in virtual real time through up loading of data to the “cloud” or other WAN/LAN based application in order to have a record of the anchor tensioning value at each anchor location, as described elsewhere herein. 
     For example, the load test device may include a communications interface, e.g., a Wi-Fi (e.g., Bluetooth) or telecommunications interface that may communicate the results of the test, e.g., to an operator device at the installation site, or remotely, e.g., to a storage or relay device. In one embodiment, the load test device may automatically associate other data with the test results, e.g., such that test results may be uniquely associated with a particular modular unit and/or particular leg of a modular unit. Such data may include one or more of GPS coordinates of the modular unit and/or leg, e.g., using an internal GPS in the load test device, a time stamp identifying the time and date of the test, an identifier corresponding to the operator and/or installer present during the test, and the like. Alternatively, the operator may input the results and/or other data into a portable device after each test, which may be stored and/or communicated to a remote location. 
     Turning to  FIG.  14   , the platform  10  may be assembled at an installation site or may be assembled in advance, e.g., at a manufacturing facility or other preparation location before delivery to the installation site. For example, in one embodiment, all of the components of the frame  12  and rack  14  may be delivered unassembled and assembled using conventional tools and methods. For example, turning to  FIGS.  15 A- 15 C , the struts  12   a - 12   c  and legs  20  for the frame  10  may be manufactured separately and assembled together, e.g., using one or more fasteners and/or clinching, as described elsewhere herein. For example, brackets  13  may be attached to the ends of mid-struts  12   c,  e.g., by a plurality of nuts and bolts ( FIG.  15 B ), and the brackets  13  may then be attached to the front and rear struts  12   a,    12   b,  e.g., using a plurality of nuts and bolts ( FIG.  15 C ). Similarly, the mounting brackets  22  of the legs  20  may be attached to the front and rear struts  12   a,    12   b,  e.g., using a plurality of nuts and bolts ( FIG.  15 C ). In the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIGS.  14  and  15 A- 15 C , a leg  20  may be provided at the ends and midpoints of the front and rear struts  12   a,    12   b.  It will be appreciated that the legs at the midpoints may be omitted or additional intermediate legs provided, as desired. 
     Optionally, as shown in  FIGS.  15 D and  15 E , cross-braces  15  may be attached between the mid struts  12   c  and legs  20  to further support the legs  20  relative to the frame  12 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  15 E , a plurality of bolts, may be directed through corresponding holes in the mid struts  12   c  and the outer member  26   a  of the legs  20  and secured with nuts to support the legs  20  substantially perpendicular relative to the frame  12 . 
     Similarly, as shown in  FIGS.  15 F- 15 J , the components of the rack  14  may also be delivered unassembled and assembled using conventional tools and methods. For example, turning to  FIGS.  15 F- 15 I , the supports  14   b  and back braces  16  of the rack  14  may be attached to the assembled frame  12 , e.g., using one or more fasteners and/or clinching. For example, opposite ends of the back braces  16  may include brackets  16   a,    16   b  that may be pivotally coupled to one end of the supports  14   b  ( FIG.  15 G ) and the mid struts  12   c  ( FIG.  15 H ), respectively, and the other end of the supports  14   b  may be attached to mounting brackets  17  attached to the front strut  12   a  ( FIG.  15 I ), to secure the supports  14   b  relative to the frame  12 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  15 J , the rails  14   a  may then be attached to the supports  14   b,  e.g., using one or more nuts and bolts (or other fasteners and/or clinching, as described elsewhere herein), e.g., such that the rails  14   a  extend the supports  14   b  substantially parallel to the front strut  12   a  of the frame  12 , e.g., as shown in  FIG.  14   . With the platform  10  assembled, one or more anchors (not shown) may be driven into the ground at the installation site and the exposed cables may be attached to the platform  10 , e.g., to the legs  20 , as described elsewhere herein, to secure the platform  10  relative to the ground at the installation site. 
     One or more solar panels  90  may then be attached to the rails  14   a,  e.g., using one or more clips, fasteners, or other mechanisms, as described elsewhere herein, e.g., as shown in  FIG.  10   . Alternatively, other racks may be mounted to the frame  12 , e.g., a pivotable rack  114  such as that shown in  FIGS.  11 A- 11 E , to which a plurality of solar panels  90  may be mounted. In this alternative, the rack  114  may be pivotable around a horizontal axis  115  to adjust the incline of the solar panels  90 , e.g., to set the incline angle based on the location of the sun relative to the installation site and/or to allow the incline angle to be changed using a motorized actuator that automatically adjust the incline angle based on the time of day and/or other parameters, as described elsewhere herein. In a further alternative, other rack systems may be mounted to the frame  12 , e.g., having single axis or multiple axis pivoting capabilities, such as the rack shown in  FIG.  11 F . 
     Alternatively, the frame  12  and rack  14  (or any of the other racks described herein) may be preassembled with one or more solar panels, and the final assembly delivered to the installation site. Thus, in this alternative, a plurality of independent modular units may be delivered to an installation site, which may be secured using one or more toggle anchors with rods and/or cables as an earth-anchoring foundation. Optionally, in this alternative, the frame  12  may include legs  20  that are movable between storage and extended positions, as described elsewhere herein. For example,  FIG.  13 A  shows an exemplary embodiment of a platform  110  carrying one or more solar panels  90 . As described previously, the platform  110  includes a frame  112  including a plurality of legs  120  that are movable between the storage position shown for delivery to an installation site, e.g., nested together with other platforms, as shown in  FIGS.  13 B- 13 D . 
     Once the platforms are delivered to the installation site, the legs  120  may be directed to the extended position (e.g., as shown in  FIG.  12 A ), anchors may be driven into desired locations, and cables from the anchors attached to the legs, as described elsewhere herein. Although each modular unit may be secured independently using its own set of one or more toggle anchors with rods and/or cables, the modular units may be adjusted as necessary to ensure that the solar panels mounted to the modular units are flush or otherwise oriented relative to one another to ensure efficient operation of the solar panels. For example, the extension legs  120  and/or frames may provide sufficient adjustability even in uneven terrain to ensure that the solar panels are properly oriented relative to one another. 
     Optionally, each modular platform  10  may include a powered control mechanism (not shown) which may be enclosed in the rear extension leg used as a support frame for adjusting the solar module frame  12  and/or rack  14 , e.g., to adjust the angle of the plane of the solar panels. For example, the mechanism may include a user interface that a user in the field may use to manually activate a motorized actuator coupled to the rack  14  to adjust the angle of the panels mounted to the rack  14 . Alternatively, the control mechanism may include a communications interface that may receive instructions remotely, whereupon the motorized actuator may be adjust the angle of the solar panels as desired, e.g., based on time of year, time of day, and/or other factors. 
     Turning to  FIGS.  16 A and  16 B , another example of a modular, multi-configurable solar power platform  210  is shown that includes a frame  212 , support struts  214 , and a plurality of solar panels  50 , generally similar to other embodiments herein. Unlike previous embodiments, the frame  212  includes a plurality of leg subassemblies  216  with each subassembly  216  include a front leg  218 , a back leg  220 , and a cross member  222  extending between them. As best seen in  FIG.  16 B , each leg  218 ,  220  includes an upper end  218   a,    220   a  coupled to opposite ends  222   a,    222   b,  of the cross member  222  and a lower end  218   b,    220   b  coupled to a shoe or base plate  225 . 
     For example, each leg  218 ,  222  may include a foot  224  integrally formed in, e.g., by bending the leg shaft, or attached to the lower end  218   b,    220   b  to which the shoe plate  225  may be attached. 
     The legs  218 ,  220  may be fixedly attached to the cross member  222  or one or both legs  218 ,  220  may include a hinge coupling the upper ends  218   a,    220   b  to the ends  222   a,    222   b  of the cross member. In one embodiment, one or both legs  218 ,  220  may include an adjustment member  218   c,    220   c,  which may be used to adjust the lengths of the legs  218 ,  220 , e.g., to adjust an overall height for the leg subassembly  216  and/or angle of the cross member  222 . For example, the legs  218 ,  220  may include a manual adjustment member  218   c,    220   c,  e.g., a telescoping structure similar to other embodiments herein, that may be adjusted manually using tools or automatically adjusted using a motorized actuator (not shown). 
     During installation, a plurality of leg subassemblies  216  may be provided for each modular unit  210 , e.g., two, three (as shown), four, or more, as desired based on the size and/or number of solar panels being mounted to the modular unit  210 . The leg assemblies  216  may be spaced apart and oriented with the feet  224  against the ground (not shown), and then struts  214  may be attached to the leg assemblies  216 , e.g., extending horizontally between the leg assemblies  216  as best seen in  FIG.  16 A . Optionally, additional structural supports may be added, e.g., one or more cables  230  attached to and/or extending between the leg subassemblies  216 . For example, a cable may be attached to the back legs  220  or adjacent leg subassemblies  216 , e.g., extending horizontally or diagonally between the leg subassemblies  216  to provide additional tensile and/or compressive support. 
     One or more toggle anchors  30  with cables and/or rods  40  may be inserted into the ground adjacent each leg  218 ,  220 , tested, and coupled to respective shoe plates  225  and/or legs  218 ,  220 , thereby providing an earth-anchoring foundation for the modular unit  210 , similar to other embodiments herein. One or more solar panels  50  may be mounted to the struts  214  and, optionally, one or more solar inverters, energy storage systems, and/or components may be mounted to the modular unit  210 , also similar to other embodiments herein. Alternatively, the modular unit  210  may be preassembled and delivered to an installation site (optionally with solar panels and/or components already mounted to the modular unit  210 ), the legs  218 ,  220  may be adjusted as desired, and anchors  30  with cables and/or rods  40  installed to secure the modular unit  210  at the installation site. 
     In accordance with each of the embodiments herein, once the modular units and solar panels and associated energy storage components are installed at an installation site, they may then be used to generate electricity, e.g., for use and/or energy storage at the installation site, similar to conventional solar panel systems. However, at any desired time, the cables and/or rods may be disconnected from the support legs (e.g., by removing the fasteners  42  and/or simply cutting the cables and/or rods), thereby allowing the modular units to be stored and/or transported for future use. For example, the legs  120  may be returned to the storage position, the modular units loaded onto a truck (e.g., as shown in  FIGS.  13 B- 13 D ), whereupon the modular units may be transported to another location. Thus, the only material that may remain at the installation site are the anchors and cables within the ground, thereby minimizing the environmental impact of the platforms. Alternatively, sufficient tension may be applied to each of the rods and/or cables, e.g., equivalent to testing beyond load capacity, to pull the entire toggle anchor and associated subterranean rod and/or cable out of the ground, thereby leaving no material at the site after the panels are removed. 
     Turning to  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B , another example of a solar panel power platform system  10  is shown that includes a support frame  12  including a plurality of support legs  20  extending from the frame  12 , e.g., for supporting the frame  12  above the ground at an installation site. For example, as shown, each support leg  20  may include a shoe plate  24  that may be connected to an earth anchor (not shown) inserted into the ground at the installation site, e.g., similar to other platforms and systems described elsewhere herein. 
     A rack  14  is mounted to the frame  12  to which one or more panels  90  may be mounted, e.g., a plurality of bifacial panels  90  that include piezoelectric elements on both upper surfaces  90   a  and lower surface  90   b  of the panels  90 . Similar to other platforms and systems described elsewhere herein, the rack  14  may be adjustable either manually or automatically to set an angle of the solar panels  90  mounted on the rack  14 . 
     For example, turning to  FIGS.  19 A- 19 C , a seasonal tilt mechanism  80  is shown that is coupled to a support frame  12  and rack  14  supporting a plurality of solar panels  90 , which may be constructed similar to other examples described elsewhere herein. As shown, the tilt mechanism  80  includes a plurality of scissor jacks  82  spaced apart from one another, e.g., mounted on respective horizontal struts  12   c  of the frame  12  and coupled to a strut  14   c  of the rack  14 . It will be appreciated that the jacks  82  may be mounted to other horizontal struts of either the frame  12  and/or the rack  14 . 
     Each jack  82  may include a pair of foldable arms  82   a  extending between a base or lower mount  82   b,  which may be secured to frame strut  14   a,  and an upper mount  82   c,  which may be secured to rack strut  14   c,  e.g., using one or more connections, e.g., bolts, screws, or other fasteners, welding, crimping, and the like, similar to other methods described herein. Unlike conventional scissor jacks, the jacks  82  are connected together by a common shaft  84 , e.g., received through spindles  84   d  in each of the arms  82   a  of the jacks  82 , as best seen in  FIG.  19 C . 
     The entire shaft  84  may be threaded or at least portions passing through the spindles  84   d  may be threaded, e.g., such that the shaft  84  and spindles  84   d  include cooperating threads allowing the shaft  84  to rotate and cause the arms  82   a  to fold or unfold. Consequently, as the shaft  84  is rotated in a first direction, the arms  82   a  may simultaneously unfold or expand to raise the upper mount  82   c  and, consequently, raise the rack strut  14   c  and rack  14  to reduce the tilt angle, e.g., as shown in  FIG.  19 B . Conversely, as the shaft  84  is rotated in a second opposite direction, the arms  82   a  may simultaneously fold or collapse to lower the upper mount  82   c  and, consequently lower the rack strut  14   c  and rack  14  and increase the tilt angle. 
     A manual or motorized actuator (not shown) may be coupled to one end of the shaft  84 , e.g., such that a user can manually increase or decrease the tilt angle, e.g., depending upon the time of year. Alternatively, a motorized actuator may be controlled by a controller, e.g., mounted to the frame  12  or elsewhere relative the system  10 , that may include a clock and/or other components that adjust the tilt angle automatically, e.g., based on the time of year. In a further alternative, a wireless communications interface may be provided that is coupled to the controller and/or actuator that may receive remote communications, e.g., commands from an operator to adjust the tilt angle from a remote location. 
     Alternatively, the tilt mechanism may be mounted to raise and/or lower the upper end of the rack  14  and/or tilt mechanisms may be mounted to both the lower and upper ends of the rack  14 , if desired to provide additional adjustment, with each tilt mechanism including a plurality of scissor jacks that may be operated manually or remotely, as desired. 
     Returning to  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B , in addition or alternatively, the support legs  20  may be adjustable to adjust a height of the frame  12  above the ground. For example, the height of the support legs  20  may be set at the time of installation of the system  10 , e.g., to mount the frame  12  substantially horizontally even if the ground is uneven. Optionally, actuators (not shown) may be coupled to one or more of the support legs  20  to adjust the length of the support legs  20  during operation, e.g., to adjust the height and/or angle of the frame  12 . In addition or alternatively, one or more actuators (not shown) may be coupled to the rack  14  to adjust an angle of and/or otherwise manipulate the rack  14  during operation, e.g., to move the solar panels  90  to maximize exposure to sunlight. 
     As shown, the system  10  also includes a reflective membrane  40  attached to one or both of the frame  14  and the support legs  20  such that the membrane is supported below the rack  14  for reflecting sunlight to the lower surfaces  90   b  of the solar panels  90  mounted on the rack  14 . For example, as represented by ray  92 , incident light from the sun may strike an upper surface  40   a  of the membrane  40  and be reflected to the lower surfaces  90   b  of the solar panels  90 . 
     In one example, each corner  42  of the membrane  40  may be secured to one of the support legs  20 , e.g., in each of the corners of the frame  12 , thereby suspending the membrane  20  under the rack  14 . The membrane  40  may have a size and/or shape such that the membrane  40  is taught when connected to the support legs  20 , thereby minimizing vibration and/or other undesired motion once installed. For example, a hole may be provided in each corner and a connector, e.g., including one or more clips, cables, and the like (not shown) may be received in the hole and in a corresponding hole or connector (not shown) in the corresponding support leg  20 , e.g., to allow the corner to be connected to the support leg  20  and removed, if desired. Optionally, the connector may be adjustable to set the tension of the membrane  40 . 
     The locations of the holes or other connectors on the support legs  20  may be located at a predetermined location on the support legs  20  or, alternatively, a plurality of holes/connectors may be provided spaced apart from one another along a length of the support legs  20 , if desired, such that the corners  42  may be connected to any one of the holes/connectors to set the height of the membrane  40 , e.g., relative to the rack  14  and, consequently, relative to the lower surfaces  90   b  of the solar panels  90 . Thus, the distance between the upper surface  40   a  of the membrane  40  and the lower surfaces  90   b  of the solar panels  90  may be set, e.g., to set a predefined distance that maximizes reflection of incident light reflected by the membrane  40  onto the lower surfaces  90   b  of the solar panels. 
     Thus, the membrane  40  may be mounted above the surface of the ground at an installation site, e.g., hovering over grass, shrubs, ground materials, and/or soil conditions at the installation site, and providing a uniform reflective surface, which may enhance performance of bifacial solar panels. Without the membrane, the lower surfaces  90   b  will only receive reflected light from the ground, which may include vegetation and/or irregular surfaces that are not sufficiently reflective to direct light to the lower surfaces  90   b.  Consequently, the membrane  40  may increase the efficiency of bifacial solar panels, e.g., by as much as twenty percent (20%) and/or provide up to 9 kWh production capability. 
     Turning to  FIG.  18   , another example of a support frame  12  is shown for a solar panel power platform system that includes a plurality of support legs  20  extending from the frame  12 , e.g., for supporting the frame  12  above the ground at an installation site. As shown, each support leg  20  includes a shoe plate  24 , which may be connected to an earth anchor (not shown) inserted into the ground at the installation site, e.g., similar to other platforms and systems described elsewhere herein. The frame  12  may be configured to receive a rack (not shown) and/or other structure for mounting one or more panels (also not shown), similar to other examples herein. 
     Unlike the previous examples, a plurality of weights or rings  70  are provided that may be stacked onto one or more of the support legs  20  to provide a ballasted solution to stabilize and/or support the frame  12  at the installation site, e.g., using the weights to create a ballasted effect. For example, at some installation sites, earth anchors and/or other structures introduced into the ground must be limited to a relatively shallow depth. For example, capped landfill sites may include a nonpenetrable membrane (not shown) at a set depth below the surface, e.g., at about thirty six inches (80 cm) or less below the surface. Earth anchors introduced into the ground at such sites may need to be installed at shallower depths than normal, e.g., less than about eighteen to thirty inches (45-75 cm) depth. In addition, landfills and/or remedial sites may limit weight of vehicles passing over the underlying soil and/or structures or materials that may risk applying excessive localized weight that may damage the underlying soil and/or a capped membrane beneath the surface. 
     To enhance structural integrity of the installation under such circumstances, a plurality of weighted rings  70  may be placed around one or more of the support legs  20 . For example, as shown, a plurality of rings  70  may be stacked around each support leg  20 , e.g., onto the respective shoe plate  24 , after installing and connecting earth anchors (not shown) to provide additional support. 
     In the example shown in  FIG.  18   , the frame  12  includes six support legs  20 , each of which has three rings  70  stacked onto their shoe plates  24 . Distributing the weight of the frame (and rack and solar panels) over six support legs  20  and plates  24  may mitigate risk to the underlying soil, particularly for landfill or other remediation sites. Thus, the same weight of rings  70  may be placed on each of the support legs  20  and plates  24  to evenly distribute the weight of the frame  12  and its support system. A ballasted installation with distributed weights may also enhance support of the installed system during a wind event and the like. 
     In one example, each ring  70  may have a cylindrical shape including flat upper and lower surfaces, which may facilitate stacking multiple rings onto a shoe plate. The rings may have a donut shape, e.g., including rounded side surfaces or may have substantially uniform cylindrical side surfaces, as desired. The rings  70  may be solid or may include an outer skin, e.g., formed from plastic, metal, and the like, which may be filled with material providing desired weight, e.g., filled with one or more of rocks, sand, cement, sludge, and the like (brought to the installation site or filled with existing materials) to provide desired heavy content for the rings. The rings may have an inner diameter larger than the support legs to allow the rings to be placed over or around the support legs and. In an example, each ring may have an outer diameter around twenty inches (50 cm) and a height of about eight inches (20 cm). 
     In addition or alternatively, one or more weights may be provided that may be secured relative to the frame. For example, one or more lateral members, e.g., cable and/or rigid struts, may include opposite ends secured to different support legs, and one or more weights may be secured to the lateral member(s) to provide a ballasted solution. For example, a plurality of weighted rings, similar to rings  70 , or other weights may be positioned around each of the lateral members such that the weights may be suspended from the frame above the surface of the ground, thereby stabilizing and/or supporting the frame. Optionally, such weighted ballast elements may also be used without earth anchors to provide a stable installation of the frame without having to insert anything into the ground. 
     Further, in describing representative embodiments, the specification may have presented the method and/or process as a particular sequence of steps. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth in the specification should not be construed as limitations on the claims. 
     While the invention is susceptible to various modifications, and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not to be limited to the particular forms or methods disclosed, but to the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims.