  The Jinping Neutrino Experiment will perform an in-depth research on solar
neutrinos and geo-neutrinos. Two structural options (i.e., cylindrical and
spherical schemes) are proposed for the Jinping detector based on other
successful underground neutrino detectors. Several key factors in the design
are also discussed in detail. A 1-ton prototype of the Jinping experiment is
proposed based on physics requirements. Subsequently, the structural design,
installation procedure, and mechanical analysis of the neutrino detector
prototype are discussed. The results show that the maximum Mises stresses on
the acrylic vessel, stainless steel truss, and the tank are all lower than the
design values of the strengths. The stability requirement of the stainless
steel truss in the detector prototype is satisfied. Consequently, the
structural scheme for the 1-ton prototype is safe and reliable.
