Distributed torque single axis solar tracker

A single axis solar tracking system comprising:

• a plurality of posts extending and spaced apart longitudinally along an axis;
• a plurality of actuators supported on a set of intermediate posts selected from the plurality of posts, wherein each actuator of the plurality of actuators is supported on an individual intermediate post;
• a torque structure extending longitudinally along the axis and extending between the plurality of actuators to receive and evenly distribute rotational torque produced from the plurality of actuators along a length of the axis;
• a plurality of solar panels connected to the torque structure, wherein the plurality of actuators with aid of the torque structure are configured to rotate the plurality of solar panels simultaneously along and about the axis by a desired amount;
• and
• a damper device provided on one or more of the intermediate posts, wherein the damper device comprises a friction plate carried by the torque structure and rotatable therewith, the friction plate being partially enclosed by an annular housing, wherein a silicone gel is provided in a space between the annular housing and the friction plate, and wherein the damper device provides a dampening effect against motion on the torque structure via shear friction force of the silicone gel against relative rotation between the annular housing and the friction plate.