Flexible post for use as a pile

Abstract

A U-shaped strut is sized and configured to be driven into a substrate as a pile. The strut includes a U-shape cross-section with two open arms. Each arm terminating in an annular 270° configuration with respect to the axis of the arm. Preferably, a plurality of struts used as piles are used to support a two dimensional support rack holding a solar panel array.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A U-shaped strut configured to be driven into a substrate as a pile, said strut comprising a U-shape cross-section with two open arms, each said arm terminating in an annular 270° configuration with respect to a major axis of each said arm. 
     
     
         2 . The strut of  claim 1 , wherein said structure comprises three flat surfaces configured for connection to external structures. 
     
     
         3 . The strut of  claim 2 , wherein said two open arms are configured to deform when said strut is driven into said substrate as a pile. 
     
     
         4 . The strut of  claim 3 , wherein said two open arms are configured to deform outwardly at a non-vertical angle to an upper surface of said substrate. 
     
     
         5 . The strut of  claim 4 , wherein said strut comprises rolled steel. 
     
     
         6 . The strut of  claim 5 , wherein said two open arms are attached to a center piece by structures having a radius. 
     
     
         7 . The strut of  claim 6 , wherein at least one surface of said strut comprises an aperture to facilitate connection to external structures. 
     
     
         8 . The strut of  claim 7 , wherein a plurality of said struts are driven as piles into a substrate to support a solar panel support array in a stable state.