Photovoltaic module cleaning method

By combining sensor arrays and image sensors with deep learning algorithms, the optimal cleaning path is calculated and parameters are adjusted in real time, which solves the problem of impurities seeping into gaps, improves the sealing performance and power generation efficiency of photovoltaic modules, and extends their service life.

CN122394488APending Publication Date: 2026-07-14HUANENG XINJIANG ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CO LTD SOUTHERN XINJIANG CLEAN ENERGY BRANCH +2

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
HUANENG XINJIANG ENERGY DEVELOPMENT CO LTD SOUTHERN XINJIANG CLEAN ENERGY BRANCH
Filing Date
2026-03-09
Publication Date
2026-07-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing photovoltaic cleaning methods have failed to effectively address the problem of impurities sliding down to the bottom of the frame and seeping into gaps during the cleaning process, leading to a decrease in the sealing performance of photovoltaic modules and affecting their service life and power generation efficiency.

Method used

The system collects impurity data using a sensor array, calculates the optimal cleaning path using a formula, and adjusts the cleaning intensity and speed in real time. Combined with an edge collection device, it guides impurities to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame to prevent impurities from seeping into gaps. It uses image sensors and deep learning algorithms to accurately identify impurities, dynamically adjust cleaning parameters, and monitor and optimize the cleaning process in real time.

Benefits of technology

It effectively prevents impurities from seeping into gaps, improves the sealing performance of photovoltaic modules, extends service life and increases power generation efficiency, and ensures cleaning effectiveness and safety.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The application discloses a photovoltaic module cleaning method. The photovoltaic module cleaning method comprises the following steps: collecting impurity accumulation data of a photovoltaic module surface through a sensor array, calculating the impurity accumulation amount of the photovoltaic module surface based on the collected impurity accumulation data, determining an optimal cleaning path according to the impurity accumulation amount and the inclination angle of the photovoltaic module surface, cleaning the photovoltaic module surface along the optimal cleaning path, adjusting the cleaning intensity and speed of a cleaning tool in real time during the cleaning process, guiding the impurities at the edge of the cleaning path to the outside of the frame of the photovoltaic module through an edge collection device, confirming that the residual amount of impurities on the photovoltaic module surface is lower than a preset threshold value through secondary detection, and re-executing the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation if the condition is not met. The photovoltaic module cleaning method of the embodiment of the application improves the cleaning efficiency, prevents impurities from penetrating into gaps, prolongs the service life and improves the power generation efficiency.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of photovoltaic power generation technology, and in particular to a method for cleaning photovoltaic modules. Background Technology

[0002] In the actual operation of photovoltaic power plants, dust, dirt, and other impurities easily accumulate on the surface of photovoltaic modules, which can seriously affect the photoelectric conversion efficiency of the modules. While existing photovoltaic cleaning methods can remove surface impurities, they fail to effectively address the problem of impurities sliding down to the bottom of the frame and seeping into the gaps between the frame and the solar cells during the cleaning process. This phenomenon leads to a decrease in the sealing performance of the photovoltaic modules, thereby affecting their lifespan and power generation efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0004] Therefore, embodiments of the present invention propose a photovoltaic module cleaning method that effectively removes impurities and prevents them from seeping into gaps, thereby improving the performance and lifespan of photovoltaic modules.

[0005] The photovoltaic module cleaning method of this invention includes: Data on impurity accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules is collected using a sensor array, including the type, density, distribution area of ​​impurities, and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface. Based on the collected impurity accumulation data, using the formula:

[0006] Calculate the amount of impurities accumulated on the surface of photovoltaic modules ,in The influence coefficient of impurity type. The area of ​​the impurity distribution region. The thickness of the impurities; Based on the amount of impurities accumulated and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface Using the formula:

[0007] Determine the optimal cleaning path ,in To clean up path weights, To clean the path Length; Along the optimal cleaning path The surface of the photovoltaic modules is cleaned, and the cleaning force and speed of the cleaning tools are adjusted in real time during the cleaning process; During the cleaning process, an edge collection device directs impurities along the cleaning path to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame, and utilizes the formula:

[0008] Calculate impurity transfer efficiency ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate. The secondary inspection confirms that the amount of impurities remaining on the surface of the photovoltaic module is lower than the preset threshold. If it does not meet the threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation are re-executed.

[0009] The photovoltaic module cleaning method of this invention improves cleaning efficiency, prevents impurities from seeping into gaps, extends service life, and increases power generation efficiency.

[0010] In some embodiments, the real-time monitoring step further includes the following sub-steps: High-resolution images of the photovoltaic module surface are acquired using an image sensor; Deep learning algorithms are used to analyze images and extract the types, densities, and distribution areas of impurities. Combined with the tilt angle of photovoltaic modules and ambient wind speed Calculate the slip probability of impurities. The formula is:

[0011] in This is the slip coefficient.

[0012] In some embodiments, the cleaning path planning step further includes the following sub-steps: Based on the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface And the cleaning efficiency of cleaning tools Calculate the tilt angle compensation amount of the cleaning path. The formula is:

[0013] Based on the amount of compensation Adjust the tilt direction of the cleaning path.

[0014] In some embodiments, the cleaning execution step further includes the following sub-steps: Based on the surface temperature of the photovoltaic module and ambient humidity Dynamically adjust the cleaning intensity of the cleaning tools The formula is:

[0015] in Initial cleaning intensity, and These are the upper limits for humidity and temperature, respectively. During the cleaning process, vibration signals on the surface of the photovoltaic modules are collected in real time, and spectrum analysis is used to determine whether the cleaning tools have caused scratches on the surface of the photovoltaic modules.

[0016] In some embodiments, the impurity collection and transfer step further includes the following sub-steps: A flexible collection device is installed at the edge of the cleaning tool to guide impurities to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame through vacuum adsorption or mechanical scraping, using the formula:

[0017] Calculate impurity transfer time ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cleaning completion verification step further includes the following sub-steps: The amount of residual impurities on the surface of photovoltaic modules is detected through secondary image acquisition and deep learning algorithms. If the amount of impurities remaining exceeds the preset threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation will be re-executed until the amount of impurities remaining is lower than the preset threshold.

[0019] In some embodiments, the output power of the photovoltaic modules is monitored in real time during the cleaning process. and ambient light intensity Through the formula:

[0020] Calculate the efficiency of photovoltaic modules ,in The effective area of ​​the photovoltaic module; Based on efficiency The changing trend can be used to determine whether the cleaning operation affects the performance of the photovoltaic modules.

[0021] In some embodiments, after cleaning is completed, the collected impurities are sorted and processed, including recyclable impurities and non-recyclable impurities. Recyclable impurities are recycled and reused, while non-recyclable impurities are disposed of in a harmless manner.

[0022] In some embodiments, during the cleaning process, real-time monitoring data and cleaning operation parameters are transmitted to a cloud server via a wireless communication module; The data is stored and analyzed using cloud servers to generate cleaning reports and send them back to the cleaning equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a photovoltaic module cleaning method according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0025] The photovoltaic module cleaning method of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the photovoltaic module cleaning method of this embodiment includes: The S100 monitors impurity accumulation data in real time, collecting data on impurity accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules through a sensor array, including the type, density, distribution area of ​​impurities, and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface.

[0027] The S200 impurity accumulation amount is calculated based on the collected impurity accumulation data, using the formula:

[0028] Calculate the amount of impurities accumulated on the surface of photovoltaic modules ,in The influence coefficient of impurity type. The area of ​​the impurity distribution region. The thickness of the impurities.

[0029] S300 cleaning path planning, based on the amount of accumulated debris. and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface Using the formula:

[0030] Determine the optimal cleaning path ,in To clean up path weights, To clean the path The length.

[0031] The S400 executes the optimal cleaning path and follows the optimal cleaning path. The surface of the photovoltaic modules is cleaned, and the cleaning force and speed of the cleaning tools are adjusted in real time during the cleaning process.

[0032] The S500 impurity collection and transfer system, during the cleaning process, uses an edge collection device to guide impurities along the cleaning path to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame, and utilizes the following formula:

[0033] Calculate impurity transfer efficiency ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate.

[0034] The S600 cleaning process has been verified. A secondary inspection confirms that the amount of impurities remaining on the surface of the photovoltaic modules is below the preset threshold. If the threshold is not met, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation will be re-executed.

[0035] Understandably, collecting data on impurity accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules through sensor arrays, including the type, density, distribution area of ​​impurities, and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface, helps to accurately identify areas that need cleaning.

[0036] Based on the amount of impurities accumulated and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module, the optimal cleaning path is calculated using a formula to ensure that the cleaning tool can evenly cover the surface of the photovoltaic module and improve cleaning efficiency.

[0037] The surface of the photovoltaic module is cleaned along the optimal cleaning path. During the cleaning process, the cleaning force and speed of the cleaning tool are adjusted in real time to avoid scratching the surface of the photovoltaic module.

[0038] During the cleaning process, the edge collection device guides the impurities along the edge of the cleaning path to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame, preventing the impurities from sliding down to the bottom of the frame and seeping into the gaps during the cleaning process.

[0039] Secondary testing confirmed that the amount of residual impurities on the surface of the photovoltaic modules was below the preset threshold, ensuring the cleaning effect.

[0040] The photovoltaic module cleaning method of this invention can more effectively remove impurities from the surface of photovoltaic modules and improve cleaning efficiency through real-time monitoring and cleaning path planning.

[0041] By collecting impurities from the edges during the cleaning process and transferring them to the outside of the frame, the impurities are effectively prevented from sliding down to the bottom of the frame and seeping into the gaps during the cleaning process, thus improving the sealing performance of the photovoltaic modules.

[0042] By preventing impurities from seeping into the gaps, the risk of a decline in the sealing performance of photovoltaic modules is reduced, thereby extending their service life.

[0043] By effectively removing impurities, the photoelectric conversion efficiency of photovoltaic modules can be improved, thereby increasing power generation efficiency.

[0044] In some embodiments, the real-time monitoring step further includes the following sub-steps: Image acquisition: Real-time image data of the photovoltaic module surface is acquired using a high-resolution image sensor installed on the surface of the photovoltaic module.

[0045] Impurity analysis: Deep learning algorithms are used to analyze images and extract the types, densities, and distribution areas of impurities.

[0046] Combined with the tilt angle of photovoltaic modules and ambient wind speed Calculate the slip probability of impurities. The formula is:

[0047] in This is the slip coefficient.

[0048] By analyzing image data using deep learning algorithms, the types, densities, and distribution areas of impurities can be accurately identified, providing a precise basis for cleaning path planning. By calculating the probability of impurities slipping, areas where impurities may slip can be predicted in advance, optimizing the cleaning path and improving cleaning effectiveness.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cleaning path planning step further includes the following sub-steps: Based on the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface And the cleaning efficiency of cleaning tools Calculate the tilt angle compensation amount of the cleaning path. The formula is:

[0050] Based on the amount of compensation Adjust the tilt direction of the cleaning path to ensure that the cleaning tool can evenly cover the surface of the photovoltaic module.

[0051] Understandably, by adjusting the tilt angle and cleaning path, it's possible to ensure the cleaning tool evenly covers the surface of the photovoltaic modules, avoiding blind spots and improving cleaning efficiency. Optimizing the cleaning path allows for more even removal of impurities from the photovoltaic module surface, enhancing the cleaning effect.

[0052] In some embodiments, the cleaning execution step further includes the following sub-steps: Based on the surface temperature of the photovoltaic module and ambient humidity Dynamically adjust the cleaning intensity of the cleaning tools The formula is:

[0053] in Initial cleaning intensity, and These are the upper limits for humidity and temperature, respectively.

[0054] During the cleaning process, vibration signals on the surface of the photovoltaic modules are collected in real time, and spectrum analysis is used to determine whether the cleaning tools have caused scratches on the surface of the photovoltaic modules.

[0055] Understandably, dynamically adjusting the cleaning intensity helps prevent scratches on the photovoltaic module surface caused by excessive cleaning force, thus extending the module's lifespan. Vibration signal monitoring and spectrum analysis allow for real-time assessment of whether the cleaning tool is causing scratches on the photovoltaic module surface, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the cleaning process.

[0056] In some embodiments, the impurity collection and transfer step further includes the following sub-steps: A flexible collection device is installed at the edge of the cleaning tool to guide impurities to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame through vacuum adsorption or mechanical scraping, using the formula:

[0057] Calculate impurity transfer time ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate.

[0058] Understandably, by using flexible collection devices and vacuum adsorption or mechanical scraping, impurities along the cleaning path edges can be efficiently guided to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame, preventing them from sliding down to the bottom of the frame and seeping into gaps during cleaning. By calculating the impurity transfer time, the impurity transfer rate can be optimized to ensure that impurities are transferred to the outside of the frame in a timely manner, thus improving cleaning efficiency.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cleaning completion verification step further includes the following sub-steps: Secondary image acquisition is performed using a high-resolution image sensor mounted on the surface of the photovoltaic module. Deep learning algorithms are then used to analyze these secondary images to detect the amount of residual impurities on the photovoltaic module surface.

[0060] If the amount of impurities remaining exceeds the preset threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation will be re-executed until the amount of impurities remaining is lower than the preset threshold.

[0061] Understandably, by using secondary image acquisition and deep learning algorithm analysis, the amount of residual impurities on the surface of photovoltaic modules can be accurately detected, ensuring effective cleaning. If the amount of residual impurities exceeds a preset threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation can be re-executed, optimizing the cleaning process and improving cleaning efficiency.

[0062] In some embodiments, the output power of the photovoltaic modules is monitored in real time during the cleaning process. and ambient light intensity Through the formula:

[0063] Calculate the efficiency of photovoltaic modules ,in The effective area of ​​the photovoltaic module.

[0064] Based on efficiency The changing trend can be used to determine whether the cleaning operation affects the performance of the photovoltaic modules.

[0065] Understandably, by monitoring the output power and ambient light intensity of photovoltaic (PV) modules in real time and calculating their efficiency, the impact of cleaning operations on PV module performance can be assessed. Based on the efficiency trend, the cleaning process can be optimized to avoid negative impacts on PV module performance caused by cleaning operations.

[0066] In some embodiments, after cleaning is completed, the collected impurities are classified into recyclable and non-recyclable impurities. Recyclable impurities are recycled, while non-recyclable impurities are disposed of in a harmless manner.

[0067] Understandably, sorting and processing allows for the recycling of recyclable impurities, reducing resource waste. Furthermore, the harmless treatment of non-recyclable impurities minimizes environmental impact and enhances environmental benefits.

[0068] In some embodiments, during the cleaning process, real-time monitoring data and cleaning operation parameters are transmitted to a cloud server via a wireless communication module. The cloud server stores and analyzes the data, generates a cleaning report, and sends it back to the cleaning equipment.

[0069] Understandably, the wireless communication module enables real-time transmission of monitoring data and cleaning operation parameters, ensuring the data's timeliness and accuracy. Storing and analyzing the data on a cloud server allows for the generation of cleaning reports and optimization of cleaning strategies, thereby improving cleaning efficiency and effectiveness.

[0070] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element 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.

[0071] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0072] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0073] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0074] In this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," 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 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. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0075] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for cleaning photovoltaic modules, characterized in that, include: Data on impurity accumulation on the surface of photovoltaic modules is collected using a sensor array, including the type, density, distribution area of ​​impurities, and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface. Based on the collected impurity accumulation data, using the formula: Calculate the amount of impurities accumulated on the surface of photovoltaic modules ,in The influence coefficient of impurity type. The area of ​​the impurity distribution region. The thickness of the impurities; Based on the amount of impurities accumulated and the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface Using the formula: Determine the optimal cleaning path ,in To clean up path weights, To clean the path Length; Along the optimal cleaning path The surface of the photovoltaic modules is cleaned, and the cleaning force and speed of the cleaning tools are adjusted in real time during the cleaning process; During the cleaning process, an edge collection device directs impurities along the cleaning path to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame, and utilizes the formula: Calculate impurity transfer efficiency ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate. The secondary inspection confirms that the amount of impurities remaining on the surface of the photovoltaic module is lower than the preset threshold. If it does not meet the threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation are re-executed.

2. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The real-time monitoring process also includes the following sub-steps: High-resolution images of the photovoltaic module surface are acquired using an image sensor; Deep learning algorithms are used to analyze images and extract the types, densities, and distribution areas of impurities. Combined with the tilt angle of photovoltaic modules and ambient wind speed Calculate the slip probability of impurities. The formula is: in This is the slip coefficient.

3. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning path planning process also includes the following sub-steps: Based on the tilt angle of the photovoltaic module surface And the cleaning efficiency of cleaning tools Calculate the tilt angle compensation amount of the cleaning path. The formula is: Based on the amount of compensation Adjust the tilt direction of the cleaning path.

4. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning process also includes the following sub-steps: Based on the surface temperature of the photovoltaic module and ambient humidity Dynamically adjust the cleaning intensity of the cleaning tools The formula is: in Initial cleaning intensity, and These are the upper limits for humidity and temperature, respectively. During the cleaning process, vibration signals on the surface of the photovoltaic modules are collected in real time, and spectrum analysis is used to determine whether the cleaning tools have caused scratches on the surface of the photovoltaic modules.

5. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The impurity collection and transfer step also includes the following sub-steps: A flexible collection device is installed at the edge of the cleaning tool to guide impurities to the outside of the photovoltaic module frame through vacuum adsorption or mechanical scraping, using the formula: Calculate impurity transfer time ,in This represents the impurity transfer rate.

6. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning completion verification process also includes the following sub-steps: The amount of residual impurities on the surface of photovoltaic modules is detected through secondary image acquisition and deep learning algorithms. If the amount of impurities remaining exceeds the preset threshold, the cleaning path planning and cleaning operation will be re-executed until the amount of impurities remaining is lower than the preset threshold.

7. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the cleaning process, the output power of the photovoltaic modules is monitored in real time. and ambient light intensity Through the formula: Calculate the efficiency of photovoltaic modules ,in The effective area of ​​the photovoltaic module; Based on efficiency The changing trend can be used to determine whether the cleaning operation affects the performance of the photovoltaic modules.

8. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After cleaning, the collected impurities are sorted and processed, including recyclable impurities and non-recyclable impurities. Recyclable impurities are recycled and reused, while non-recyclable impurities are disposed of in a harmless manner.

9. The photovoltaic module cleaning method according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the cleaning process, real-time monitoring data and cleaning operation parameters are transmitted to the cloud server via a wireless communication module; The data is stored and analyzed using cloud servers to generate cleaning reports and send them back to the cleaning equipment.