Photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism
The modularly designed photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism, employing auxiliary wheels and a drive module combined with a cleaning fluid supply system, achieves efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly photovoltaic panel cleaning. This solves the problems of low efficiency and high cost associated with traditional cleaning methods, and promotes the sustainable development of the photovoltaic industry.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ZHEJIANG ZHESHENG COMPLETE ELECTRICAL EQUIP CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-14
AI Technical Summary
Existing methods for cleaning photovoltaic panels suffer from problems such as high labor intensity, low efficiency, complex and bulky equipment, and difficulties in installation and commissioning, which affect power generation efficiency and increase operation and maintenance costs.
A modular photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism was designed, which adopts an auxiliary wheel set, a drive module and a cleaning liquid supply mechanism. The speed of the cleaning brush is precisely controlled by pulleys and belt drive, and combined with the uniform spraying of cleaning liquid, efficient cleaning is achieved.
It improves cleaning efficiency, reduces operation and maintenance costs, ensures equipment flexibility and safety, and meets the needs of green energy development.
Smart Images

Figure CN224124102U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of solar photovoltaic panel technology, specifically a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism. Background Technology
[0002] With the continued growth in global demand for clean energy, photovoltaic (PV) power generation, as a green and sustainable energy source, is increasingly accounting for a larger share of the energy sector. As the core component of a PV power generation system, the surface cleanliness of the PV panel directly affects its light absorption efficiency and power generation performance. In practical applications, PV panels are exposed to the outdoor environment for extended periods, making them highly susceptible to being covered by pollutants such as dust, bird droppings, fallen leaves, and sand. Research indicates that pollutants on the surface of PV panels can reduce power generation efficiency by 10%-30%, impacting not only revenue but also increasing the cost of PV power generation.
[0003] Currently, the two main methods for cleaning photovoltaic panels on the market are manual cleaning and mechanical cleaning. Manual cleaning relies on human labor using cleaning tools, which is labor-intensive and inefficient, and the frequency and effectiveness of manual cleaning are difficult to guarantee. While mechanical cleaning improves cleaning efficiency to some extent, some mechanical cleaning equipment is complex in structure, bulky, and difficult to install and debug. Therefore, developing a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism that is simple in structure, easy to operate, has good cleaning effect, and is highly applicable is of great significance for improving photovoltaic power generation efficiency and reducing operation and maintenance costs. Summary of the Invention
[0004] (a) Technical problems to be solved
[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this utility model aims to provide a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism that effectively solves the problems associated with current photovoltaic panel cleaning methods. The cleaning mechanism adopts a modular design, with the mounting frame serving as the core carrier. It integrates auxiliary wheels, a drive module, a cleaning fluid supply mechanism, and cleaning brushes in a compact manner, facilitating installation, debugging, and maintenance, and is compatible with various photovoltaic panel specifications. The rollers of the auxiliary wheels are engaged with the outside of the photovoltaic support, working in conjunction with the drive module's driving and driven wheels to achieve smooth movement of the cleaning mechanism using friction. Compared to traditional large-scale mechanical cleaning equipment, this reduces the weight and size of the equipment, improving flexibility. The drive motor, through pulleys and belt transmission, precisely controls the cleaning brush speed, ensuring uniform and efficient cleaning. In the cleaning fluid supply mechanism, the inlet channel, branch pipes, filter plates, and throttling orifices achieve precise filtration and uniform spraying of the cleaning fluid, avoiding waste and enhancing cleaning effectiveness. The overall design balances cleaning efficiency, cleaning effect, and operational safety, reducing maintenance costs and providing an efficient and reliable solution for photovoltaic panel cleaning.
[0006] (II) Technical Solution
[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model provides the following technical solution: a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism, including a photovoltaic bracket and a cleaning mechanism, the cleaning mechanism including a mounting frame, auxiliary wheel sets symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mounting frame, a drive module fixed on the inner side of the auxiliary wheel sets, a cleaning liquid supply mechanism fixed at both ends of the mounting frame, and a cleaning brush connected between the drive modules;
[0008] The drive module includes a drive frame housing, a drive motor is provided on the outer side of the drive frame housing, a first pulley and a drive pulley are provided at the output end of the drive motor, bearings are provided on both sides of the middle part of the drive frame housing, a rotating shaft is provided between the bearings, a second pulley is provided on the outer edge of the rotating shaft, a belt is provided between the first pulley and the second pulley, and a driven pulley is provided on the inner right side of the drive frame housing.
[0009] Preferably, the auxiliary wheel set includes a mounting sheet metal, the bottom of which is provided with two sets of rollers, the rollers being symmetrically engaged with the outer side of the photovoltaic bracket and rolling along the outer edge.
[0010] Preferably, the cleaning fluid supply mechanism includes spray pipes fixed to the front and rear sides of the mounting frame and a liquid inlet channel fixed to the upper end of the right drive module, wherein the spray pipes and the liquid inlet channel are connected by branch pipes.
[0011] Preferably, a filter plate is installed between the liquid inlet channel and the branch pipe.
[0012] Preferably, the lower end of the spray pipe is arrayed with multiple sets of throttling orifices.
[0013] Preferably, the shaft of the cleaning brush is connected to the rotating shaft.
[0014] (III) Beneficial Effects
[0015] The purpose of this utility model is to provide a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism that achieves multiple beneficial effects through innovative design. In terms of cleaning efficiency, the drive module uses pulleys and belts to precisely drive the cleaning brush, combined with a cleaning fluid supply mechanism for even spraying, which can quickly remove contaminants from photovoltaic panels and significantly improve power generation efficiency. The combination of the auxiliary wheel assembly and the drive module allows the cleaning mechanism to move flexibly and stably. Regarding safety, all components are robust and durable, reducing the occurrence of malfunctions, ensuring long-term stable operation of the equipment, and lowering maintenance costs. In terms of energy conservation and environmental protection, the cleaning fluid supply mechanism achieves precise supply and recycling, eliminating waste, while the equipment operates with low energy consumption and no pollution, aligning with the trend of green energy development. Overall, this utility model effectively solves the problems of low efficiency and significant safety hazards in traditional photovoltaic panel cleaning, providing a reliable guarantee for the cleaning and maintenance of the photovoltaic industry with its high efficiency, flexibility, safety, and environmental protection characteristics, and powerfully promoting the sustainable development of the photovoltaic industry. Attached Figure Description
[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the entire present invention.
[0017] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning mechanism in this utility model.
[0018] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the drive module in this utility model.
[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary wheel assembly in this utility model.
[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the spray pipe in this utility model.
[0021] In the diagram: 1-Photovoltaic bracket, 2-Cleaning mechanism, 21-Mounting frame, 22-Auxiliary wheel set, 23-Drive module, 24-Cleaning liquid supply mechanism, 25-Cleaning brush, 221-Mounting sheet metal, 222-Roller, 231-Drive frame housing, 232-Drive motor, 233-First pulley, 234-Drive wheel, 235-Bearing, 236-Rotating shaft, 237-Second pulley, 238-Belt, 239-Driven wheel, 241-Spray pipe, 242-Liquid inlet channel, 243-Branch pipe, 244-Filter plate, 2411-Throttle orifice. Detailed Implementation
[0022] The following will refer to the appendix in the example of this utility model. Figures 1-5 The technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model are clearly and completely described. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.
[0023] like Figure 1-5 As shown, this utility model provides a photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism, including a photovoltaic bracket 1 and a cleaning mechanism 2. The cleaning mechanism 2 includes a mounting frame 21, auxiliary wheel sets 22 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mounting frame 21, a drive module 23 is fixed on the inner side of the auxiliary wheel sets 22, a cleaning liquid supply mechanism 24 is fixed at both ends of the mounting frame 21, and a cleaning brush 25 is connected between the drive modules 23.
[0024] The photovoltaic support bracket 1 serves as the fundamental support component of the entire system, providing a stable installation platform for the photovoltaic panels and determining their tilt angle and orientation to obtain optimal sunlight. Simultaneously, its structure also provides a moving track for the cleaning mechanism 2, a prerequisite for its mobile cleaning capabilities. The cleaning mechanism 2 integrates functions such as power transmission, cleaning fluid supply, and cleaning operation, achieving automated cleaning of the photovoltaic panel surface through the coordinated operation of its various sub-components.
[0025] Mounting bracket 21 is made of high-strength and lightweight materials, ensuring structural stability while reducing overall weight. It provides a mounting reference for components such as auxiliary wheel set 22, drive module 23, and cleaning fluid supply mechanism 24.
[0026] The auxiliary wheel assembly 22 consists of a mounting sheet metal 221 and rollers 222. The mounting sheet metal 221 is the intermediate component connecting the mounting frame 21 and the rollers 222. It is made using a stamping process, which provides high structural strength and adaptability, ensuring that the rollers 222 are securely installed. The rollers 222 are made of wear-resistant rubber and are symmetrically engaged with the outer side of the photovoltaic bracket 1. During the movement of the cleaning mechanism 2, the rollers 222 roll along the outer edge of the photovoltaic bracket 1, providing support, guidance, and shock absorption. This reduces frictional resistance during the movement of the cleaning mechanism, ensures smooth movement, and prevents wear on the photovoltaic bracket.
[0027] The drive module 23 is the core of power transmission and control for the cleaning mechanism 2. The drive frame housing 231 is made of metal, providing dustproof, waterproof, and impact-resistant protection for internal precision components such as the drive motor 232 and bearings 235. The drive motor 232, as the power source, converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, and the output speed and torque can be controlled by adjusting the current. The first pulley 233 and the second pulley 237, together with the belt 238, form a belt drive system, enabling long-distance power transmission and speed changes. The transmission ratio is adjusted according to cleaning needs to ensure the cleaning brush 25 operates at a suitable speed. The driving wheel 234 and the driven wheel 239 contact the surface of the photovoltaic bracket 1, using friction to drive the cleaning mechanism 2. The driving wheel 234 rotates under the drive motor 232, while the driven wheel 239 provides auxiliary support and guidance, ensuring the cleaning mechanism moves smoothly along a straight line. Bearings 235 are installed on both sides of the middle of the drive frame housing 231, providing support for the rotating shaft 236, reducing friction and wear during rotation, and improving transmission efficiency and component lifespan.
[0028] In the cleaning fluid supply mechanism 24, the inlet channel 242 is responsible for introducing the cleaning fluid from an external source into the system. Corrosion-resistant pipe materials are used to ensure safe delivery of the cleaning fluid. The branch pipe 243 evenly distributes the cleaning fluid from the inlet channel 242 to the spray pipe 241. A filter plate 244 is installed between the inlet channel 242 and the branch pipe 243. Through a multi-layer filter structure, it effectively filters impurities in the cleaning fluid, preventing them from clogging the throttling orifices 2411 of the spray pipe 241 and ensuring a stable supply of cleaning fluid. The spray pipe 241 is fixed to both ends of the mounting bracket 21. The array of throttling orifices 2411 at its lower end is used to evenly spray the cleaning fluid onto the photovoltaic panel surface at appropriate pressure and flow rate, working in conjunction with the cleaning brush 25 to enhance the cleaning effect.
[0029] The cleaning brush 25 has its shaft connected to the rotating shaft 236 and rotates under the drive of the drive module 23. The bristles are made of soft and wear-resistant material, which can effectively remove dust and dirt from the surface of the photovoltaic panel without damaging the coating on the photovoltaic panel surface. In conjunction with the cleaning liquid, it can achieve all-round cleaning of the photovoltaic panel surface, restore the light transmittance of the photovoltaic panel, and improve the power generation efficiency.
[0030] Working principle:
[0031] Powered by an external power source, the cleaning mechanism's various power components are powered. Cleaning fluid is supplied to the device via an external centrifugal pump, ensuring a continuous flow of cleaning fluid. Once the external power is connected, the drive motor 232 starts operating, outputting power to rotate the drive wheel 234. The drive wheel 234 contacts the photovoltaic support 1, relying on friction to drive the entire cleaning mechanism 2 to move on the photovoltaic support 1. The driven wheel 239 cooperates with the drive wheel 234 to help maintain the stability and smoothness of the movement, preventing the cleaning mechanism from shifting or jamming during movement.
[0032] The auxiliary wheel sets 22 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mounting frame 21. The rollers 222 are engaged with both sides of the photovoltaic bracket 1. When the cleaning mechanism 2 moves, the rollers 222 roll along the outer edge of the photovoltaic bracket 1. This not only supports the cleaning mechanism 2, but also further assists the cleaning mechanism 2 to move smoothly, reduces movement resistance, and ensures that the cleaning mechanism 2 can move along the surface of the photovoltaic panel according to a predetermined trajectory.
[0033] Meanwhile, the power of the drive motor 232 is also transmitted to the second pulley 237 through the first pulley 233 and the belt 238, driving the rotating shaft 236 to rotate, which in turn causes the cleaning brush 25 connected to the rotating shaft 236 to rotate. The cleaning fluid, after being pressurized by the pump, passes through the inlet channel 242, is filtered by the filter plate 244 to remove impurities, and is then diverted through the branch pipe 243 to the spray pipe 241, finally being evenly sprayed onto the photovoltaic panel surface through the throttling orifice 2411. The rotating cleaning brush 25, in conjunction with the sprayed cleaning fluid, effectively removes dust, dirt, and other impurities from the photovoltaic panel surface, thereby keeping the photovoltaic panel surface clean and improving the photovoltaic panel's power generation efficiency.
[0034] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism, comprising a photovoltaic bracket (1) and a cleaning mechanism (2), wherein the cleaning mechanism (2) comprises a mounting frame (21), auxiliary wheel sets (22) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the mounting frame (21), a drive module (23) is fixed on the inner side of the auxiliary wheel set (22), a cleaning liquid supply mechanism (24) is fixed at both ends of the mounting frame (21), and a cleaning brush (25) is connected between the drive modules (23); The drive module (23) includes a drive frame housing (231), a drive motor (232) is provided on the outer side of the drive frame housing (231), a first pulley (233) and a drive pulley (234) are provided at the output end of the drive motor (232), bearings (235) are provided on both sides of the middle part of the drive frame housing (231), a rotating shaft (236) is provided between the bearings (235), a second pulley (237) is provided on the outer edge of the rotating shaft (236), a belt (238) is provided between the first pulley (233) and the second pulley (237), and a driven pulley (239) is provided on the inner right side of the drive frame housing (231).
2. The photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The auxiliary wheel set (22) includes a mounting sheet metal (221), and two sets of rollers (222) are provided at the bottom of the mounting sheet metal (221). The rollers (222) are symmetrically engaged with the outside of the photovoltaic bracket (1) and roll along the outer edge.
3. The photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning fluid supply mechanism (24) includes a spray pipe (241) fixed to the front and rear sides of the mounting bracket (21) and an inlet channel (242) fixed to the upper end of the right drive module (23). The spray pipe (241) and the inlet channel (242) are connected by a branch pipe (243).
4. A photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, A filter plate (244) is provided between the liquid inlet channel (242) and the branch pipe (243).
5. A photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lower end of the spray pipe (241) is provided with multiple sets of throttling holes (2411).
6. A photovoltaic panel cleaning mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaft of the cleaning brush (25) is connected to the rotating shaft (236).