Cleaning device of photovoltaic module and control method of cleaning device
By designing a photovoltaic module cleaning device, which combines a frame and a roller brush, automated waterless cleaning of photovoltaic modules is achieved. This solves the problem of reduced power generation efficiency caused by dust covering the surface of photovoltaic modules, improves cleaning efficiency, and reduces safety risks. It is particularly suitable for arid and harsh environments.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- INNER MONGOLIA SMART OPERATION & MAINTENANCE NEW ENERGY CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-08
AI Technical Summary
Dust accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules reduces power generation efficiency. Existing cleaning methods are inefficient and pose safety risks, especially in arid regions where water resources are scarce and in severe weather conditions where cleaning effectiveness is limited.
A photovoltaic module cleaning device was designed, including a frame, drive wheels and a roller brush. The roller brush extends along the width of the photovoltaic module, and the drive wheels travel along the length. Combined with the design of the bridge and track, it realizes automated waterless cleaning. It is equipped with detection components and control modules to adapt to different environmental conditions.
It achieves automatic cleaning of photovoltaic modules without blind spots, improves cleaning efficiency, reduces manual operation and safety hazards, is suitable for large-scale desert photovoltaic power stations, saves power load and improves movement stability.
Smart Images

Figure CN122001289A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of photovoltaic equipment cleaning technology, and in particular to a cleaning device for photovoltaic modules and a control method for the cleaning device. Background Technology
[0002] Dust and sand covering the surface of photovoltaic modules can significantly reduce their power generation efficiency. Photovoltaic power plants built in arid and water-scarce areas such as deserts and Gobi often face the challenge of cleaning photovoltaic modules. Manual wiping or rinsing is inefficient and poses safety risks due to working at heights. Spraying systems using artificial rainmaking consume large amounts of water, are poorly applicable in arid regions, and their cleaning effectiveness is limited by water quality and weather conditions. Summary of the Invention
[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related technologies.
[0004] The first aspect of this application provides a cleaning device for photovoltaic modules. The cleaning device includes a frame, a drive wheel, and a track. The frame is equipped with a roller brush that extends along the width direction of the photovoltaic module. The roller brush is used to roll on the photovoltaic panel of the photovoltaic module to clean the photovoltaic panel. The drive wheel is connected to the end of the frame, and the track is connected to the photovoltaic module. The track extends along the length direction of the photovoltaic module, and the drive wheel is used to roll along the track.
[0005] In some technical solutions provided in this application, the photovoltaic module includes a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module arranged along the length direction. The track includes a first support rail, a second support rail and a cable tray. The first support rail is disposed on the first photovoltaic module, the second support rail is disposed on the second photovoltaic module, the first end of the cable tray is movably connected to the first support rail, the second end of the cable tray is used to overlap the second support rail, the cable tray is capable of moving along the length direction, and the first end of the cable tray is rotatably connected to the first support rail.
[0006] In some technical solutions provided in this application, the first and second support rails are respectively provided with static contacts, the frame is provided with moving contacts, and the cleaning device further includes: a control module, which is used to drive the cable tray to extend along the length direction and overlap the second support rail when the moving contact is opposite to the static contact. The control module is also used to control the cable tray to retract to the first support rail after the passage conditions are met; wherein, the passage conditions include the moving contact and the static contact being opposite to each other again, or the overlap time of the cable tray being greater than a preset time.
[0007] In some of the technical solutions provided in this application, the cleaning device further includes: a driving component and a transmission component. The driving component is connected to the roller brush, and the transmission component is connected to both the driving component and the driving wheel. The driving component drives the roller brush and the driving wheel to rotate simultaneously through the transmission component.
[0008] In some technical solutions provided in this application, a frame is provided around the outer periphery of the photovoltaic panel, two photovoltaic panels are arranged along the width direction, two roller brushes are coaxially connected by a corrugated coupling, and at least one roller brush is connected to a drive component through a spherical bearing. The frame also includes a bearing bracket, and the opposite ends of the two roller brushes are rotatably connected to the bearing bracket. The bearing bracket is provided with auxiliary wheels for rolling along the frame of the photovoltaic module.
[0009] In some of the technical solutions provided in this application, the cleaning device also includes: an electromagnetic lock and an anti-detachment hook. The electromagnetic lock is located on the frame, and a lock hole is provided at the initial position of the photovoltaic module. The electromagnetic lock is inserted into the lock hole to limit the frame. The anti-detachment hook is located at the end of the frame and engages with and slides with the track.
[0010] In some of the technical solutions provided in this application, the cleaning device also includes: a detection component, which is installed on the frame and is used to detect hot spots and microcracks on the photovoltaic panel, the power of the cleaning device, and the wind speed.
[0011] The second aspect of this application proposes a control method for a cleaning device. This control method is used in the cleaning device provided in any of the above embodiments. The control method includes: receiving wind speed acquired by a detection component; receiving a cleaning command when the wind speed is less than a wind speed threshold; controlling the drive wheel to travel along the length of the photovoltaic module; controlling the roller brush to roll and clean the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic module; and controlling the drive wheel to pass through the bridge.
[0012] In some technical solutions provided in this application, the step of controlling the drive wheel to pass through the cable tray specifically includes: when the moving contact and the stationary contact on the frame are opposite each other, the drive cable tray extends along the length direction and overlaps the second support rail; the drive wheel is controlled to pass through the cable tray at a speed of 0.1m / s to 0.3m / s; the cable tray is controlled to retract to the first support rail after the passing conditions are met; wherein, the passing conditions include the moving contact and the stationary contact being opposite each other again, or the overlap time of the cable tray being greater than a preset time.
[0013] In some technical solutions provided in this application, after the step of receiving the wind speed obtained by the detection component, the method further includes: when the wind speed is greater than or equal to the wind speed threshold, controlling the drive wheel to run to the initial position of the photovoltaic module; and controlling the electromagnetic lock to extend into the lock hole to brake the drive wheel.
[0014] Compared with related technologies, the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:
[0015] The cleaning device enables automatic cleaning of photovoltaic modules, improving cleaning efficiency, reducing manual operation, and minimizing the physical strain and safety hazards of working at heights in harsh environments. The rotating roller brush achieves waterless cleaning of the photovoltaic modules through flexible contact, effectively solving the problem of water scarcity in special environments and avoiding limitations imposed by water quality and weather conditions on cleaning effectiveness. This is particularly suitable for cleaning and maintenance scenarios in large-scale desert photovoltaic power plants. Furthermore, the directional design, with the drive wheels traveling along the length of the photovoltaic modules and the roller brush cleaning along the width, not only achieves thorough cleaning of the modules but also allows for a reasonable reduction in the length and overall weight of the frame and roller brush. This significantly reduces the power load on the drive wheels and the roller brush, achieving energy conservation and effectively improving the movement stability of the cleaning device. Attached Figure Description
[0016] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of some embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A cleaning schematic diagram of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a frame according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 4 One of the partial structural schematic diagrams of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 A second partial structural schematic diagram of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 A third schematic diagram of a partial structure of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the operation of the moving contact and the stationary contact in one embodiment of this application is provided; Figure 8 A locking diagram of an electromagnetic lock according to one embodiment of this application; Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the driving structure of a roller brush according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 A schematic flowchart illustrating the control method of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of this application.
[0017] in, Figures 1 to 9 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows: 10. Cleaning device; 100. Frame; 110. Roller brush; 111. Rolling bearing; 120. Bearing bracket; 130. Moving contact; 140. Auxiliary wheel; 150. Fixed bracket; 151. Lock hole; 200. Drive wheel; 300. Track; 310. First support rail; 320. Second support rail; 330. Cable tray; 340. Stationary contact; 400. Control module; 510. Electromagnetic lock; 520. Anti-detachment hook; 610. Drive component; 611. Motor bearing; 612. Universal coupling; 620. Transmission component; 710. Hot spot detection module; 720. Microcrack detection module; 730. Power detection module; 810. Spherical bearing; 820. Corrugated coupling; 20. Photovoltaic module; 21. Photovoltaic panel; 22. Frame; 23. First photovoltaic module; 24. Second photovoltaic module. Detailed Implementation
[0018] To better understand the above technical solutions, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application and the specific features in the embodiments are detailed descriptions of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, rather than limitations on the technical solutions of this application. In the absence of conflict, the embodiments of this application and the technical features in the embodiments can be combined with each other.
[0019] The first aspect of this application provides a cleaning device 10 for a photovoltaic module 20, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the cleaning device 10 includes: a frame 100, a drive wheel 200, and a track 300. The frame 100 is provided with a roller brush 110, which extends along the width direction of the photovoltaic module 20. The roller brush 110 is used to roll on the photovoltaic panel 21 of the photovoltaic module 20 to clean the photovoltaic panel 21. The drive wheel 200 is connected to the end of the frame 100. The track 300 is connected to the photovoltaic module 20 and extends along the length direction of the photovoltaic module 20. The drive wheel 200 is used to roll along the track 300.
[0020] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 10 is used for the photovoltaic module 20 in a water-scarce environment, such as a desert or Gobi. A frame 100 is mounted on the photovoltaic module 20. A roller brush 110 of the frame 100 presses against the surface of the photovoltaic panel 21 of the photovoltaic module 20. The roller brush 110 is used to dry clean the photovoltaic panel 21. During the contact and rolling process, the roller brush 110 removes debris and dust from the photovoltaic panel 21, thus cleaning the photovoltaic panel 21. The contact pressure between the roller brush 110 and the surface of the photovoltaic panel 21 is 0.5 N / cm. 2 Up to 1.0 N / cm 2This ensures effective dust removal while avoiding damage to the surface of the photovoltaic panel 21. The track 300 is located on the outer side of the photovoltaic panel 21 and forms a gap with the end of the roller brush 110. The track 300 extends along the width direction of the photovoltaic module 20, and the roller brush 110 extends along the length direction of the photovoltaic module 20. Figure 2 and Figure 7 In the diagram, the arrow at position X points in the length direction, and the arrow at position Y points in the width direction. For example, the track 300 can be formed by the frame 22 outside the photovoltaic panel 21, or the track 300 can be additionally provided and form a gap with the photovoltaic panel 21. The end of the frame 100 is provided with a drive wheel 200. When the drive wheel 200 rolls along the track 300, it drives the frame 100 to move along the length direction, so that the roller brush 110, as it moves from left to right, forms a continuous planar cleaning area that covers the entire photovoltaic module 20. It can be understood that the photovoltaic module 20's length is greater than its width. The length of the roller brush 110 is adapted to the width of the photovoltaic module 20. While ensuring full coverage of the cleaning range, compared to extending the roller brush 110 along the length direction, this reduces the length and weight of the roller brush 110, reduces the length of the frame 100, and saves the driving power of the frame 100 and the roller brush 110.
[0021] For example, the bristles of the roller brush 110 are made of nylon, which has good abrasion resistance, elasticity, and cleaning ability, enabling flexible contact between the bristles and the surface of the photovoltaic panel 21 and avoiding damage to the photovoltaic panel 21. The bristle diameter is 0.05mm to 0.2mm, the length is 70mm to 90mm, and the density is 1.1g / cm³. 3 Up to 1.2 g / cm 3 The tensile strength is 70MPa to 90MPa. The frame 100 and track 300 are made of lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloy, with good wind resistance and corrosion resistance. The drive wheels 200 are made of rubber, with good grip and wear resistance, preventing damage to the track 300 and ensuring a long service life. The diameter of the drive wheels 200 is 100mm to 200mm, the width is 40mm to 60mm, and the hardness is 50 Shore A to 70 Shore A.
[0022] The cleaning device 10 enables automatic cleaning of the photovoltaic modules 20, improving cleaning efficiency, reducing manual operation, and minimizing the intensity of manual labor and safety hazards associated with working at heights in harsh environments. The roller brush 110 achieves waterless cleaning of the photovoltaic modules 20 through flexible contact rotation, effectively solving the problem of water scarcity in special environments and avoiding limitations imposed by water quality and weather conditions on cleaning effectiveness. This is particularly suitable for cleaning and maintenance scenarios in large-scale desert photovoltaic power stations. Furthermore, the directional design of the drive wheels 200 traveling along the length of the photovoltaic modules 20 and the roller brush 110 cleaning along the width not only achieves thorough cleaning of the photovoltaic modules 20 but also reasonably reduces the length and overall weight of the frame 100 and the roller brush 110, thereby significantly reducing the power load on the drive wheels 200 and the roller brush 110, achieving energy conservation and effectively improving the movement stability of the cleaning device 10.
[0023] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, the photovoltaic module 20 includes a first photovoltaic module 23 and a second photovoltaic module 24 arranged along the length direction. The track 300 includes a first support rail 310, a second support rail 320 and a cable tray 330. The first support rail 310 is disposed on the first photovoltaic module 23, the second support rail 320 is disposed on the second photovoltaic module 24, the first end of the cable tray 330 is movably connected to the first support rail 310, the second end of the cable tray 330 is used to overlap the second support rail 320, the cable tray 330 can move along the length direction, and the first end of the cable tray 330 is rotatably connected to the first support rail 310.
[0024] In this embodiment, a split structure for the track 300 is provided. Multiple photovoltaic modules 20 are arranged along their length, each including a first photovoltaic module 23 and a second photovoltaic module 24 spaced apart. A first support rail 310 and a second support rail 320 are respectively disposed on the first photovoltaic module 23 and the second photovoltaic module 24. For example, the first support rail 310 and the second support rail 320 can be formed by the frame 23 of the photovoltaic panel 21. The two ends of the bridge 330 are connected to the first support rail 310 and the second support rail 320 respectively. The drive wheel 200 travels from the first photovoltaic module 23 to the second photovoltaic module 24 via the bridge 330, allowing the cleaning device 10 to move within the array of photovoltaic modules 20, achieving continuous cleaning across multiple photovoltaic modules 20, and realizing systematic coverage and efficient cleaning of a large-scale photovoltaic field. Exemplarily, the surface of the bridge 330 is covered with an anti-slip coating to prevent the drive wheel 200 from slipping when passing through.
[0025] The first end of the cable tray 330 is located on the first support rail 310. The cable tray 330 can extend and retract along its length relative to the first support rail 310, allowing the second end of the cable tray 330 to extend out of the first support rail 310 and overlap the end of the second support rail 320. Furthermore, the first end of the cable tray 330 is hinged to the first support rail 310, allowing the second end of the cable tray 330 to swing up and down. By rotating, the cable tray 330 can connect photovoltaic modules 20 at different heights, enabling the cleaning device 10 to pass smoothly between uneven photovoltaic modules 20. It should be noted that the cement pipe piles fixing the photovoltaic modules 20 are prone to sinking in harsh environments. The intermediate cable tray 330 can automatically extend and retract when the photovoltaic modules 20 sink to absorb the positional deviation caused by the sinking, ensuring smooth connection of adjacent photovoltaic modules 20.
[0026] For example, the cable tray 330 can be an integral structure or a telescopic structure. The minimum length of the cable tray 330 in the retracted state is 500mm, and the maximum length in the extended state is 1000mm. The first end of the cable tray 330 is equipped with a motor and a hydraulic cylinder to realize the rotation and telescopic movement of the cable tray 330.
[0027] The working mode of the cable tray 330 is set according to the application area of the photovoltaic module 20. In some embodiments, for areas where the height difference between the photovoltaic module 20 arrays is small or fixed, the cable tray 330 is pre-installed and fixed in the corresponding position as a permanent transition channel. In other embodiments, for areas where the height difference between the photovoltaic module 20 arrays may vary greatly, the cable tray 330 adopts an adaptive mode. After the cleaning device 10 cleans the first photovoltaic module 23, the cable tray 330 automatically extends and overlaps the second support rail 320, allowing the cleaning device 10 to cross photovoltaic modules 20 of different heights.
[0028] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first rail 310 and the second rail 320 are respectively provided with stationary contacts 340, and the frame 100 is provided with a moving contact 130. The cleaning device 10 also includes a control module 400. When the moving contact 130 is opposite to the stationary contact 340, the control module 400 is used to drive the cable tray 330 to extend along the length direction and overlap the second rail 320. The control module 400 is also used to control the cable tray 330 to retract to the first rail 310 after the passage conditions are met. The passage conditions include the moving contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 being opposite to each other again, or the overlap time of the cable tray 330 being greater than a preset time.
[0029] In this embodiment, a telescopic mechanism for the cable tray 330 is provided. The ends of the first rail 310 and the second rail 320 that are close to each other are each provided with a stationary contact 340. The surface of the frame 100 facing the rail 300 is provided with a movable contact 130. When the frame 100 moves to the edge of the first rail 310, the movable contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 cooperate with each other. The control module 400 determines that the movable contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 are relative, thereby determining the position of the frame 100. For example, the movable contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 can be a transmitter and a receiver, respectively, and their relative positions are determined by transmitting and receiving laser signals. Alternatively, the movable contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 can close and form a circuit through contact. The control module 400 can be a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller).
[0030] The control module 400 controls the drive wheel 200 to move along the first support rail 310 at a speed of 0.4 m / s to 0.6 m / s. When the frame 100 moves to the position where the moving contact 130 and the stationary contact 340 are opposite, the control module 400 drives the bridge 330 to extend along the length direction and overlap the end of the second support rail 320, so that the bridge 330 establishes a walking path between the first photovoltaic module 23 and the second photovoltaic module 24. The control module 400 reduces the walking speed of the drive wheel 200 and controls the drive wheel 200 to pass through the bridge 330 at a speed of 0.1 m / s to 0.3 m / s, so that the frame 100 can pass through the bridge 330 more smoothly. After the passage conditions are met, the control module 400 determines that the frame 100 has passed the cable tray 330 and moved to the second support rail 320. The control module 400 then controls the cable tray 330 to retract to the first support rail 310, thus resetting the cable tray 330 and preventing it from being eroded by wind and sand, thereby extending its service life. The passage conditions include the cable tray 330's overlap time being greater than a preset time, or the moving contact 130 being aligned with the opposite stationary contact 340. For example, when the moving contact 130 is aligned with the left stationary contact 340, the cable tray 330 extends; when it is aligned with the right stationary contact 340, the cable tray 330 retracts. The moving contact 130, in cooperation with the stationary contact 340, determines the position of the frame 100, enabling the cable tray 330 to extend and retract in a timely manner according to the position of the frame 100. This improves the intelligence and convenience of the track 300's extension and retraction, and enhances the automation level of the cleaning device 10.
[0031] For example, the telescopic distance and rotation angle of the cable tray 330 can be determined by pre-measured data, and the staff regularly updates the measurement data to ensure the accuracy of the cable tray 330 overlap.
[0032] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 9As shown, the cleaning device 10 also includes a drive member 610 and a transmission member 620. The drive member 610 is connected to the roller brush 110, and the transmission member 620 is connected to the drive member 610 and the drive wheel 200 respectively. The drive member 610 drives the roller brush 110 and the drive wheel 200 to rotate simultaneously through the transmission member 620.
[0033] In this embodiment, a driving method for the roller brush 110 and the drive wheel 200 is provided. The driving component 610 can be a motor, and the transmission component 620 can be a gear, a gear set, or a reducer. The driving end of the driving component 610 is connected to the roller brush 110 and the transmission component 620 respectively, so that the driving component 610 can simultaneously drive the roller brush 110 and the drive wheel 200 to rotate, thereby improving the utilization efficiency of the driving component 610, reducing the number of driving components 610, and ensuring the synergy of the operation of the roller brush 110 and the drive wheel 200.
[0034] For example, there are two drive wheels 200, which are located on both sides of the drive member 610.
[0035] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, a frame 22 is provided around the outer periphery of the photovoltaic panel 21. Two photovoltaic panels 21 are arranged along the width direction. Two roller brushes 110 are coaxially connected by a corrugated coupling 820. At least one roller brush 110 is connected to the drive component 610 through a spherical bearing 810. The frame 100 also includes a bearing frame 120. The opposite ends of the two roller brushes 110 are rotatably connected to the bearing frame 120. The bearing frame 120 is provided with an auxiliary wheel 140, which is used to roll along the frame 22 of the photovoltaic module 20.
[0036] In this embodiment, the frame 22 surrounds the outer periphery of the photovoltaic panel 21. The two photovoltaic panels 21 are arranged along the width direction. The two roller brushes 110 are coaxially arranged and correspond one-to-one with the two photovoltaic panels 21. The opposite ends of the two roller brushes 110 are connected by a corrugated coupling 820. The other end of one roller brush 110 is connected to the drive component 610 by a spherical bearing 810. The corrugated coupling 820 and the spherical bearing 810 can absorb the vibration of the roller brush 110 during rolling, so that the roller brush 110 can avoid stones and other debris and reset in time, ensuring that the roller brush 110 returns to the initial position, reducing the hard collision of the roller brush 110 during cleaning, and extending the service life of the roller brush 110 and the photovoltaic panel 21.
[0037] A bearing frame 120 is provided in the middle of the frame 100. The end of the roller brush 110 with a corrugated coupling 820 is rotatably connected to the bearing frame 120 through a rolling bearing 111. An auxiliary wheel 140 is provided at the bottom of the bearing frame 120. After the two frames 22 are connected, a walking channel is formed in the middle of the photovoltaic module 20. The auxiliary wheel 140 rolls along the frame 22 in the middle area, providing rolling support for the middle position of the frame 100, making the movement of the cleaning device 10 more stable.
[0038] For example, the roller brush 110 is connected to the drive end of the drive member 610 via a motor bearing 611 and a universal coupling 612, further enhancing the drive member 610's ability to accommodate the radial movement of the roller brush 110. The frame 100 also has bearing brackets 120 and auxiliary wheels 140 at both ends along its width direction. The ends of the roller brush 110 are rotatably connected to the bearing brackets 120, and the auxiliary wheels 140 provide auxiliary support to both ends of the frame 100.
[0039] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 4 and Figure 8 As shown, the cleaning device 10 also includes an electromagnetic lock 510 and an anti-detachment hook 520. The electromagnetic lock 510 is located on the frame 100. The photovoltaic module 20 has a lock hole 151 at its initial position. The electromagnetic lock 510 is inserted into the lock hole 151 to limit the frame 100. The anti-detachment hook 520 is located at the end of the frame 100. The anti-detachment hook 520 engages with and slides with the track 300.
[0040] In this embodiment, a windproof protection structure is provided. The chassis of the frame 100 is equipped with an electromagnetic lock 510. The lock hole 151 can be located at the initial position of the photovoltaic module 20 or at the fixed bracket 150 at the initial position. When the wind speed exceeds the wind speed threshold, the cleaning device 10 returns to its initial position before cleaning. The control module 400 controls the locking tongue of the electromagnetic lock 510 to insert into the lock hole 151 under the action of a spring and lock it. Simultaneously, the control module 400 applies electric braking to the drive wheel 200, locking it. This dual locking mechanism works together to prevent the cleaning device 10 from being blown away from its stop position by strong winds, ensuring the safety of the cleaning device 10 under severe weather conditions. If cleaning is required, the electromagnetic lock 510 is de-energized, the locking tongue retracts, and the locked state of the cleaning device 10 is released.
[0041] For example, the lock hole 151 is provided with a guide structure to compensate for minor deviations during docking, so that the bolt of the electromagnetic lock 510 can be accurately inserted into the lock hole 151.
[0042] The anti-detachment hook 520 adopts a spring loading mechanism. The opening size of the anti-detachment hook 520 is 10mm to 30mm. The anti-detachment hook 520 engages with the slots or holes on both sides of the track 300 to provide fixing force, ensuring that the sweeping device 10 can operate stably, providing anti-detachment protection during the walking process, and improving the safety and stability of the sweeping device 10 operation.
[0043] In some embodiments provided in this application, such as Figure 6 As shown, the cleaning device 10 also includes a detection component, which is located on the frame 100. The detection component is used to detect hot spots and microcracks on the photovoltaic panel 21, the power of the cleaning device 10, and the wind speed.
[0044] In this embodiment, the detection component is used to monitor the status of the photovoltaic module 20 in real time. The detection component includes: an infrared hot spot detection module 710, a microcrack detection module 720, a power detection module 730, and a wind speed sensor. The infrared hot spot detection module 710 uses a FLIRLEPTON 3.5 sensor with a detection accuracy of ±0.1℃. During cleaning, the infrared hot spot detection module 710 scans the surface of the photovoltaic panel 21 in real time, identifies hot spots, and records their locations. The microcrack detection module 720 uses electroluminescent imaging. The power detection module 730 measures the power of the cleaning device 10 in real time, and the wind speed sensor detects the wind speed. The detection component transmits the detection data to the control module 400 in real time, enabling personnel to promptly grasp the operating status of the photovoltaic module 20 and the cleaning device 10, perform real-time intelligent diagnosis and preventative maintenance of the photovoltaic module 20, and promptly detect potential faults.
[0045] A second aspect of this application provides a control method for a cleaning device, such as... Figure 10 As shown, this control method is used in the cleaning device provided in any of the above embodiments, and the control method includes: Step 11: Receive the wind speed obtained by the detection component; Step 12: When the wind speed is less than the wind speed threshold, receive the cleaning command; Step 13: Control the drive wheel to move along the length of the photovoltaic module, and control the roller brush to roll and clean the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic module; Step 14: Control the drive wheels to pass through the bridge.
[0046] In this embodiment, the control module 400 receives the wind speed from the detection component and initiates cleaning based on a cleaning command when the wind speed is less than a threshold. After receiving the cleaning command, the control module 400 first performs a system self-check, which includes checking battery level, sensor status, and brush position. After the self-check, the control module 400 plans a cleaning path based on a preset cleaning plan and real-time wind speed data. The control module 400 controls the drive wheel to move along the track, and the roller brush rotates at a constant speed, pressing the top surface of the photovoltaic panel. During the contact and rolling process, the roller brush removes debris and dust from the photovoltaic panel, thus cleaning it. As the drive wheel rolls along the track, it drives the frame to move along its length, causing the roller brush to form a continuous surface cleaning area as it moves from left to right, covering the entire photovoltaic panel. When the current photovoltaic panel is cleaned, the control module 400 controls the drive wheel to move through the bridge to the next photovoltaic panel for cleaning.
[0047] The cleaning device enables automatic cleaning of photovoltaic modules, improving cleaning efficiency, reducing manual operation, and minimizing the physical strain and safety hazards of working at heights in harsh environments. The rotating roller brush achieves waterless cleaning of the photovoltaic modules through flexible contact, effectively solving the problem of water scarcity in special environments and avoiding limitations imposed by water quality and weather conditions on cleaning effectiveness. This is particularly suitable for cleaning and maintenance scenarios in large-scale desert photovoltaic power stations. Furthermore, the directional design, with the drive wheels traveling along the length of the photovoltaic modules and the roller brush cleaning along the width, not only achieves thorough cleaning of the modules but also allows for a reasonable reduction in the length and overall weight of the frame and roller brush. This significantly reduces the power load on the drive wheels and the roller brush, achieving energy conservation and effectively improving the stability of the equipment.
[0048] The cleaning device is equipped with a lithium battery pack and supports automatic charging. The charging station is located at the end of the track. The lithium battery pack is charged wirelessly via induction, taking 2 hours to charge. Once fully charged, the cleaning device can operate continuously for 8 hours. After cleaning is complete, the cleaning device returns to the charging station. The control module 400 uploads the cleaning data, detection results, and operating status to the operation and maintenance management platform via a wireless communication module. The operation and maintenance management platform can remotely monitor the status of the cleaning device and issue maintenance and cleaning commands, achieving unattended automated and intelligent operation.
[0049] In some embodiments provided in this application, step 14, controlling the drive wheel to pass through the bridge, specifically includes: Step 141: When the moving contact and the stationary contact on the frame are opposite each other, the drive bridge extends along the length direction and overlaps the second support rail. Step 142: Control the drive wheels to pass through the bridge at a speed of 0.1 m / s to 0.3 m / s; Step 143: Control the cable tray to retract to the first support rail after the passage conditions are met; Among these conditions are that the moving contact and the stationary contact are brought together again, or the overlap time of the cable tray is greater than the preset time.
[0050] In this embodiment, the control module 400 controls the drive wheels to move along the first support rail at a speed of 0.4 m / s to 0.6 m / s. When the frame moves to the position where the moving contact and the stationary contact are opposite, the control module 400 drives the bridge to extend along its length and overlap the end of the second support rail, establishing a walking path between the first and second photovoltaic modules. The control module 400 then reduces the speed of the drive wheels and controls them to pass through the bridge at a speed of 0.1 m / s to 0.3 m / s, allowing the frame to pass through the bridge more smoothly. After the passage conditions are met, the control module 400 determines that the frame has passed through the bridge and moved to the second support rail. The control module 400 then controls the bridge to retract to the first support rail, resetting the bridge and preventing it from being eroded by wind and sand, thus extending its service life. The conditions for extension include the cable tray's overlap time exceeding a preset time, or the moving contact being aligned with the opposite stationary contact. For example, when the moving contact is aligned with the left stationary contact, the cable tray extends; when it is aligned with the right stationary contact, the cable tray retracts. The moving contact, in coordination with the stationary contact, determines the position of the frame, enabling the cable tray to extend and retract promptly according to the frame's position. This enhances the intelligence and convenience of the track extension and retraction, and improves the automation level of the cleaning device.
[0051] For example, the number of moving contacts can be one or two to improve the accuracy of frame positioning. Along the operating direction of the cleaning device, when the moving contact at the front end is opposite to the stationary contact, the control module 400 extends the cable tray; when the moving contact at the rear end is opposite to the stationary contact, the control module 400 retracts the cable tray. For instance, when the cleaning device moves from left to right, the cable tray extends after the right moving contact is opposite to the left stationary contact, and retracts after the left moving contact is opposite to the right stationary contact.
[0052] In some embodiments provided in this application, after step 11 of receiving the wind speed acquired by the detection component, the method further includes: Step 15: When the wind speed is greater than or equal to the wind speed threshold, control the drive wheel to run to the initial position of the photovoltaic module; Step 16: Control the electromagnetic lock to extend into the lock hole and brake the drive wheel.
[0053] In this embodiment, severe weather such as strong winds frequently occur in desert and Gobi environments. Such severe weather not only hinders cleaning operations but also requires protection for the cleaning device. When the wind speed exceeds the wind speed threshold, the cleaning device returns to its initial position before cleaning. The control module 400 controls the electromagnetic lock's latch to insert into the lock hole under the action of a spring and lock it in place. Simultaneously, the control module 400 applies electric braking to the drive wheels, locking them in place. This dual locking mechanism works together to prevent the cleaning device from being blown away from its stop position by strong winds, ensuring the safety of the cleaning device under severe weather conditions.
[0054] In this invention, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance; the term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise explicitly defined. The terms "install," "connect," "link," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connect" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; "link" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.
[0055] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or unit referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.
[0056] In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0057] The above are merely some embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the present invention can have various modifications and variations. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.
Claims
1. A cleaning device for photovoltaic modules, characterized in that, include: The frame is equipped with a roller brush that extends along the width of the photovoltaic module and is used to roll on the photovoltaic panel of the photovoltaic module to clean the photovoltaic panel. The drive wheel is connected to the end of the frame. A track is connected to the photovoltaic module, the track extends along the length of the photovoltaic module, and the drive wheel is used to roll along the track.
2. The photovoltaic module cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The photovoltaic module includes a first photovoltaic module and a second photovoltaic module arranged along the length direction, and the track includes: The first support rail is provided on the first photovoltaic module; The second support rail is located on the second photovoltaic module; The cable tray has a first end movably connected to the first support rail, a second end for overlapping the second support rail, and is capable of moving along its length, with the first end of the cable tray rotatably connected to the first support rail.
3. The photovoltaic module cleaning device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first and second rails are each provided with stationary contacts, the frame is provided with moving contacts, and the cleaning device further includes: The control module is configured to drive the cable tray to extend along the length direction and overlap the second support rail when the moving contact is opposite to the stationary contact. The control module is also configured to control the cable tray to retract to the first support rail after the passage conditions are met. The passage conditions include the moving contact and the stationary contact being opposite to each other again, or the overlap time of the cable tray being greater than a preset time.
4. The cleaning device for photovoltaic modules according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: The driving component is connected to the roller brush; A transmission component is connected to the driving component and the driving wheel respectively, and the driving component drives the roller brush and the driving wheel to rotate simultaneously through the transmission component.
5. The photovoltaic module cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The photovoltaic panel has a frame around its outer periphery, two photovoltaic panels are arranged along the width direction, two roller brushes are coaxially connected by a corrugated coupling, and at least one roller brush is connected to the drive component by a spherical bearing. The frame also includes a bearing frame, and the opposite ends of the two roller brushes are rotatably connected to the bearing frame. The bearing frame is equipped with auxiliary wheels for rolling along the frame of the photovoltaic module.
6. The cleaning device for photovoltaic modules according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: An electromagnetic lock is provided on the frame, and a lock hole is provided at the initial position of the photovoltaic module. The electromagnetic lock is used to be inserted into the lock hole to limit the position of the frame. An anti-detachment hook is provided at the end of the frame, and the anti-detachment hook engages with and is slidably connected to the track.
7. The cleaning device for photovoltaic modules according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A detection component is provided on the frame, and the detection component is used to detect hot spots and microcracks on the photovoltaic panel, the power of the cleaning device, and the wind speed.
8. A control method for a cleaning device, characterized in that, For a cleaning apparatus as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, the control method comprises: Receive the wind speed obtained by the detection component; When the wind speed is less than the wind speed threshold, a cleaning command is received. Control the drive wheel to move along the length of the photovoltaic module, and control the roller brush to roll and clean the photovoltaic panels of the photovoltaic module; Control the drive wheels to pass through the bridge.
9. The control method for the cleaning device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The steps of controlling the drive wheel to pass through the bridge specifically include: When the moving contact and the stationary contact on the frame are opposite each other, the drive bridge extends along the length direction and overlaps the second support rail; Control the drive wheels to pass through the bridge at a speed of 0.1 m / s to 0.3 m / s; The cable tray is controlled to retract to the first support rail after the passage conditions are met; The passing conditions include the moving contact and the stationary contact facing each other again, or the overlap time of the cable tray being greater than a preset time.
10. The control method for the cleaning device according to claim 8, characterized in that, After receiving the wind speed from the detection component, the process also includes: When the wind speed is greater than or equal to the wind speed threshold, the drive wheel is controlled to run to the initial position of the photovoltaic module; The electromagnetic lock is controlled to extend into the lock hole to brake the drive wheel.