Self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel
By designing the curvature of the curved solar photovoltaic panel and the water channel system, combined with a superhydrophobic coating, efficient self-cleaning and optical performance optimization are achieved, solving the problem of dust accumulation on the photovoltaic panel and improving photoelectric conversion efficiency and structural stability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ANTELOPE SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT SERVICE (HANGZHOU) CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-24
AI Technical Summary
Existing photovoltaic panels are prone to dust accumulation in open-air environments, leading to a decrease in photoelectric conversion efficiency. Furthermore, existing flat panels installed at angles are not thoroughly cleaned or have insufficient structural strength.
A self-cleaning curved solar photovoltaic panel is designed with an arc angle of 15°±2°, combined with water guide channels and a superhydrophobic nano-coating to achieve automatic rainwater cleaning. The structure of the photovoltaic panel is optimized to improve self-cleaning efficiency and light capture efficiency.
It significantly improves the self-cleaning ability of photovoltaic panels, reduces the frequency and cost of manual cleaning, increases photoelectric conversion efficiency, enhances wind resistance, extends service life, and reduces operation and maintenance costs.
Smart Images

Figure CN224555568U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of photovoltaic panel technology, and in particular to a self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel. Background Technology
[0002] Photovoltaic power generation is a technology that directly converts light energy into electrical energy using the photovoltaic effect at the semiconductor interface. It mainly consists of three parts: solar panels (modules), a controller, and an inverter. The main components are made up of electronic devices. Solar cells are connected in series and then encapsulated for protection to form large-area solar cell modules. Combined with components such as power controllers, this forms a photovoltaic power generation device.
[0003] Most existing photovoltaic panels are planar structures, which are prone to dust accumulation in open-air environments, leading to a decrease in photoelectric conversion efficiency of over 30%. Conventional cleaning methods are costly and water-intensive, while existing angled planar panels can only achieve localized self-cleaning. Some curved photovoltaic panels suffer from incomplete cleaning or insufficient structural strength due to unreasonable curvature design.
[0004] Therefore, those skilled in the art have provided a self-cleaning curved solar photovoltaic panel to solve the problems mentioned in the background art. Utility Model Content
[0005] The purpose of this invention is to address the shortcomings of existing technologies by proposing a self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel with a simple structure and high self-cleaning efficiency.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel includes a photovoltaic frame. Multiple arc-shaped photovoltaic panels are fixedly connected to the upper end of the photovoltaic frame by bolts. The photovoltaic frame includes multiple horizontal fixing rods and longitudinal fixing rods. Multiple arc-shaped support rods are fixedly arranged between the multiple horizontal fixing rods. A water guide groove is opened inside the horizontal fixing rod. The inclination angle of one side wall of the water guide groove is set to 45°, and the depth of the water guide groove is ≥5mm. The arc-shaped photovoltaic panel includes a photovoltaic panel body, with a substrate fixedly connected to the lower end of the photovoltaic panel body. The arc angle α is 15°±2°, corresponding to a slope of 26.8%-31.0%. A transparent protective layer is provided on the upper end of the photovoltaic panel body, and the transparent protective layer is a superhydrophobic nano-coating.
[0007] Furthermore, the radian angle α is preferably 15°±1°.
[0008] Furthermore, the tilt angle of the water guide channel is consistent with the curvature of the substrate.
[0009] Furthermore, the substrate is a curved substrate with a radius of curvature R satisfying the formula: R=L / (2sin(α / 2)), where L is the width of the substrate.
[0010] Furthermore, the substrate is made of glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate material.
[0011] Furthermore, the photovoltaic panel body has a built-in array of solar cells, which are flexible thin-film batteries, and is externally connected to a controller and an inverter.
[0012] Furthermore, the surface contact angle of the transparent protective layer is greater than 150°.
[0013] Furthermore, the arc-shaped photovoltaic panel also includes a frame, which is fixed to the edge of the photovoltaic panel body and connected to the horizontal fixing rod and arc-shaped support rod of the photovoltaic frame.
[0014] This utility model has the following beneficial effects: This invention proposes a self-cleaning curved solar photovoltaic panel. Through a unique arc angle design and structural optimization, it significantly improves the performance and practicality of the photovoltaic panel. Its core advantage lies in its highly efficient self-cleaning capability. Rainwater automatically washes away accumulated dust along the curved surface, effectively removing it and reducing the frequency and cost of manual cleaning. Simultaneously, the curved design optimizes the angle of sunlight incidence, improving light capture efficiency and increasing power generation. The water guide groove at the bottom of the frame matches the curvature of the substrate, solving the problem of water accumulation at the edges of curved panels and further enhancing the self-cleaning effect. The transparent protective layer uses a superhydrophobic nano-coating to accelerate rainwater flow and reduce stain residue. The curved structure also improves wind resistance, adapting to various climatic conditions and extending the lifespan of the photovoltaic panel. The lightweight and durable materials reduce installation and maintenance difficulty. This technology requires no additional energy consumption, is energy-saving and environmentally friendly, and is suitable for various scenarios such as rooftop photovoltaics and ground-mounted power stations. It has broad market application prospects and competitiveness, significantly reducing operation and maintenance costs and improving overall economic benefits. Attached Figure Description
[0015] Figure 1 This is a front view schematic diagram of the present utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom surface of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the arc-shaped photovoltaic panel of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal fixing rod of this utility model.
[0016] Legend: 1. Curved photovoltaic panel; 2. Photovoltaic frame. Detailed Implementation
[0017] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0018] Reference Figures 1-4 An embodiment of this utility model is provided: a self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel, including a photovoltaic frame 2, with multiple arc-shaped photovoltaic panels 1 fixedly connected to the upper end of the photovoltaic frame 2 by bolts. The photovoltaic frame 2 includes multiple horizontal fixing rods and vertical fixing rods. Multiple arc-shaped support rods are fixedly arranged between the multiple horizontal fixing rods. A water guide groove is opened inside the horizontal fixing rod. The inclination angle of one side wall of the water guide groove is set to 45°, and the depth of the water guide groove is ≥5mm. The curved photovoltaic panel 1 includes a photovoltaic panel body, with a substrate fixedly connected to the lower end of the photovoltaic panel body. The curvature angle α is 15°±2°, corresponding to a slope of 26.8%-31.0%. A transparent protective layer is provided on the upper end of the photovoltaic panel body. The transparent protective layer is a superhydrophobic nano-coating.
[0019] The arc angle α is preferably 15°±1°. The inclination angle of the water guide channel is consistent with the arc of the substrate. The substrate is a curved substrate with a radius of curvature R satisfying the formula: R=L / (2sin(α / 2)), where L is the width of the substrate. The substrate is made of glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate material. The photovoltaic panel body has a built-in array of solar cells, which are flexible thin-film batteries, and are externally connected to a controller and inverter. The surface contact angle of the transparent protective layer is greater than 150°. The curved photovoltaic panel 1 also includes a frame, which is fixed to the edge of the photovoltaic panel body and connected to the horizontal fixing rod and the curved support rod of the photovoltaic frame 2.
[0020] Specifically, the 15°±2° arc angle design of this invention enables rainwater to form a continuous laminar flow, increasing the scouring force per unit area by 40% compared to a 25° slope. Laboratory tests show a self-cleaning efficiency of over 92%. A through-type water guide channel is provided at the bottom of the frame, with an inclination angle consistent with the curvature of the substrate, completely solving the problem of water accumulation at the edges of curved panels. The transparent protective layer uses a superhydrophobic nano-coating to accelerate rainwater flow and reduce stain residue. In regions between 30° and 45° north latitude, the average annual light capture efficiency is 12%-18% higher than traditional flat photovoltaic panels, significantly increasing power generation. The arc design makes the solar radiation incident angle closer to vertical, reducing reflection loss and improving photoelectric conversion efficiency. The arc design reduces the wind resistance coefficient, lowering it by 15% compared to a 30° arc panel; wind tunnel tests show deformation <0.3mm under 12-level wind pressure. The substrate uses glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate, which is high in strength and lightweight, reducing installation and maintenance difficulty.
[0021] The self-cleaning function significantly reduces dust accumulation, with laboratory tests showing a 60%-70% reduction in annual maintenance costs. It eliminates the need for external water sources or mechanical cleaning devices, saving water and electricity. The efficient self-cleaning and water channel design prevents long-term dirt buildup, extending the lifespan of the photovoltaic panels. The substrate and frame are made of weather-resistant materials, adapting to various climatic conditions and reducing replacement frequency. The photovoltaic frame 2 is bolted to the curved photovoltaic panel 1, simplifying installation and allowing for quick replacement or repair. The absence of moving mechanical parts reduces failure rates and maintenance workload.
[0022] Improved light-harvesting efficiency and self-cleaning function reduce power generation losses, indirectly lowering carbon emissions. No manual cleaning is required, saving significant water resources, making it particularly suitable for arid regions. The substrate is made of recyclable polycarbonate, and the frame is made of aluminum alloy, aligning with sustainable development principles. The superhydrophobic nano-coating is non-toxic and harmless, with no negative environmental impact. The curved design enhances wind and rain resistance, making it suitable for various geographical and climatic conditions. It can be used in various applications such as rooftop photovoltaics, ground-mounted power stations, and agricultural photovoltaics.
[0023] A radius of curvature of 15°±2° achieves the optimal balance between self-cleaning performance and structural stability. When the angle is less than 13°, the cleaning rate drops below 80%, and when it is greater than 17°, the stress concentration on the frame increases by 37%. The radius of curvature R is precisely calculated using the formula R=L / (2sin(α / 2)), ensuring structural rationality and manufacturing feasibility. Combining the curvature design, water-guiding channels, and superhydrophobic coating forms a highly efficient self-cleaning technology closed loop, requiring no additional energy consumption. This clearly distinguishes it from mechanical cleaning patents that rely on additional devices and adjustable curvature patents that lack a fixed optimal angle, such as patents “CN222531649U” and “CN119109405A”.
[0024] This patented self-cleaning curved solar photovoltaic panel achieves high-efficiency self-cleaning, optimized optical performance, and enhanced structural stability through its arc angle design, water-guiding channel system, and superhydrophobic coating. It boasts significant technical, economic, and environmental benefits. The self-cleaning efficiency reaches up to 92%, reducing the frequency and cost of manual cleaning; light capture efficiency is increased by 12%-18%, significantly increasing power generation; wind load resistance is enhanced, adapting to various climatic conditions; annual operation and maintenance costs are reduced by 60%-70%, resulting in significant economic benefits; and it is environmentally friendly and energy-saving, reducing water consumption and carbon emissions. This technology is applicable to various scenarios such as rooftop photovoltaics and ground-mounted power stations, possessing broad market application prospects and competitiveness.
[0025] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Although the present utility model has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel, comprising a photovoltaic frame (2), characterized in that: The upper end of the photovoltaic frame (2) is fixedly connected with multiple arc-shaped photovoltaic panels (1) by bolts. The photovoltaic frame (2) includes multiple horizontal fixing rods and longitudinal fixing rods. Multiple arc-shaped support rods are fixedly arranged between the multiple horizontal fixing rods. A water guide groove is opened inside the horizontal fixing rod. The inclination angle of one side wall of the water guide groove is set to 45°, and the depth of the water guide groove is ≥5mm. The arc-shaped photovoltaic panel (1) includes a photovoltaic panel body, and a substrate is fixedly connected to the lower end of the photovoltaic panel body. The arc angle α is 15°±2°, corresponding to a slope of 26.8%-31.0%. A transparent protective layer is provided on the upper end of the photovoltaic panel body. The transparent protective layer is a superhydrophobic nano-coating.
2. The self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The preferred radian angle α is 15°±1°.
3. The self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The tilt angle of the water guide channel is consistent with the curvature of the substrate.
4. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The substrate is a curved substrate with a radius of curvature R satisfying the formula: R=L / (2sin(α / 2)), where L is the width of the substrate.
5. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The substrate is made of glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate material.
6. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The photovoltaic panel body has a built-in array of solar cells, which are flexible thin-film batteries, and is externally connected to a controller and an inverter.
7. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The surface contact angle of the transparent protective layer is greater than 150°.
8. A self-cleaning arc-shaped solar photovoltaic panel according to claim 1, characterized in that: The arc-shaped photovoltaic panel (1) also includes a frame, which is fixed to the edge of the photovoltaic panel body and connected to the horizontal fixing rod and arc-shaped support rod of the photovoltaic frame (2).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
CN119109405A
CN222531649U