Strut, system and method for a solar mirror frame
A strut end piece for a strut for connecting with a fin of a sleeve for a solar mirror frame support. A strut for receiving a strut end piece for a solar mirror frame support. A sleeve for connecting with a chord and a strut end piece for a solar mirror frame support having a main portion having an opening for receiving the chord. A method for connecting a sleeve to a chord and a strut end piece for a solar mirror frame support.
1. An assembly for a solar mirror frame support comprising:
a metal sleeve with a fin, the metal sleeve having a size that allows the metal sleeve and fin to be extruded on a 10 inch diameter extrusion press, the metal sleeve and fin being one continuous extrusion;
a strut having an end; and
a metal strut end piece that is distinct and separate from the strut, the strut end piece having a size that allows the strut end piece to be extruded on a 10 inch diameter extrusion press, the strut end piece comprising:
an engagement portion which engages with the strut in proximity to the strut's end;
a first strut end piece upper leg extending from the engagement portion; and
a second strut end piece upper leg extending from the engagement portion, the ends of the first strut end piece upper leg and the second strut end piece upper leg curving or angled outwards, the first and second strut end piece upper legs engaging with the fin of the metal sleeve, each of the first and second strut end pieces upper legs has a fastener hole, the engagement portion and the first and second piece upper legs being one continuous extrusion.
2. The assembly as described in claim 1 that can support between 1000-20000 pounds.
3. The assembly as described in claim 2 wherein the engagement portion has bottom legs which fit into the strut whose ends angle or curve inwards or are beveled or otherwise formed to ease insertion of the strut end piece into the strut.