System for cleaning solar modules with electromagnetic waves

Abstract

A system (100) for cleaning solar modules with electromagnetic waves, comprising: an aluminum frame (105) configured to allow the dust cleaning system to be removably / permanently installed / mounted / connected to a solar module by means of fasteners or the like to automatically clean the solar modules with electromagnetic waves based on real-time parameters; a transparent film comprising at least one layer of a micro-scale printed electrode array (120) within the film, configured to emit focused electromagnetic waves to effectively clean dirt / dust, wherein the printed electrode array emits specific frequencies of electromagnetic waves in the ELF range (3 to 30 Hz) and VLF range (3 kHz to 30 kHz) to loosen dirt without contacting the surface of the solar module; an upper layer of optically clear adhesive (115) which ensures the secure connection of the upper dielectric layer to the printed electrode, wherein the upper dielectric layer (110) provides electrical insulation and transmits sunlight to the PV module; a lower layer of optically clear adhesive (125) which ensures the secure connection of the PV module to the printed electrode, wherein the PV module converts sunlight into electricity; a self-healing adhesive layer (155) that repairs even the smallest damage to maintain the long-term structural integrity and performance of the film; an ATMEGA 328 motherboard (135) that independently controls the emission of electromagnetic waves through the foil based on the signals received from sensors, WLAN module and cloud server.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to cleaning systems for solar modules. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system for cleaning solar modules using electromagnetic waves to avoid efficiency losses caused by water or chemical cleaning processes. BACKGROUND

[0002] Solar energy is an extremely long-lasting and viable supplemental energy source compared to fossil fuels. However, efficiency can be compromised when dust, dirt, and other airborne particles settle on the surface of a solar module. In areas with extremely high dust concentrations, such as arid and desert climates, this can result in energy losses of up to 20% to 30%. Effective cleaning solutions are therefore essential for maintaining the operational efficiency and long lifespan of PV solar modules.

[0003] Common methods for cleaning solar modules include manual cleaning with water and brushes or automated systems with mechanical wipers. While these have proven effective in removing dust from modules, they have several disadvantages. Manual cleaning is labor- and time-intensive, requires frequent maintenance, and is sometimes expensive.

[0004] In addition to the water scarcity in many regions where solar systems are installed, water can be used as a raw material for automated systems. Mechanical components inevitably promote wear and tear, leading to damage to the modules over time.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a system for cleaning solar modules using electromagnetic waves to avoid the use of water-, chemical-, and detergent-based cleaning techniques. The present invention effectively overcomes the above-mentioned problems, limitations, and disadvantages. OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a system for cleaning solar modules using electromagnetic waves to increase efficiency through automatic cleaning techniques.

[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transparent film that emits electromagnetic waves to clean the solar module without contact and without manual effort, thus removing dust and other contaminants with maximum energy release.

[0008] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an environmentally friendly method for cleaning solar modules without the use of water or chemicals. This method is therefore suitable for areas with severe water scarcity and causes the lowest possible environmental impact throughout the entire solar module maintenance process.

[0009] Another objective of the present invention is to extend the lifespan of solar modules by preventing dust buildup, which reduces their efficiency and lifespan. This ensures their long-term performance with minimal human intervention.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a scalable, cost-effective cleaning solution that can be easily deployed on a large scale, for example in solar parks, where manual cleaning would be labor-intensive and expensive.

[0011] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY

[0012] The various embodiments of the present invention disclose a system for cleaning solar modules using electromagnetic waves to avoid efficiency losses due to water or chemical cleaning methods. The electromagnetic wave-based cleaning system consists of an aluminum frame configured so that the dust cleaning system can be removably / fixedly mounted / connected to a solar module using fasteners or the like to automatically clean the solar modules using electromagnetic waves based on real-time parameters.

[0013] A transparent film contains at least one layer of a printed micro-scale electrode array within the film. This array emits focused electromagnetic waves to effectively remove dirt / dust. The printed electrode array emits specific frequencies of electromagnetic waves in the ELF (3 to 30 Hz) and VLF (3 kHz to 30 kHz) ranges to loosen dirt without touching the surface of the solar module.

[0014] The top layer of optically clear adhesive ensures a secure bond between the upper dielectric layer and the printed electrode. The upper dielectric layer provides electrical insulation and directs sunlight to the PV module. The lower layer of optically clear adhesive ensures a secure bond between the PV module and the printed electrode. The PV module converts sunlight into electricity.

[0015] The self-healing adhesive layer repairs even the smallest damage, thus maintaining the film's structural integrity and performance over the long term. The ATMEGA 328 motherboard is configured to make autonomous decisions based on signals received from sensors, the Wi-Fi module, and the cloud server, triggering the film to emit electromagnetic waves.

[0016] These and other aspects of the embodiments described herein will become more fully understood in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. While the following descriptions show preferred embodiments and numerous specific details, they are illustrative and not limiting. Numerous changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments described herein are intended to include all such modifications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0017] The further objects, features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings. Fig. shows the schematic representation of the electromagnetic wave-based cleaning system for solar modules according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] The specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings but not in others. This is for clarity only, since each feature according to the present invention can be combined with all or some of the other features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The various embodiments, as well as further developments and features, are explained in the following detailed description with reference to non-limiting details. The depiction of processing techniques for known components is omitted in order not to unnecessarily obscure the embodiments described herein. The examples used herein are intended to facilitate understanding of the possible applications of the embodiments described herein and to enable those skilled in the art to implement the embodiments described herein. The examples should therefore not be construed as limiting the scope of application of the embodiments described herein.

[0020] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system (100) for cleaning solar modules with electromagnetic waves to increase their efficiency by eliminating water-, chemical-, or detergent-based cleaning processes. The cleaning system (100) consists of an aluminum frame. This frame is provided with a compressed sticker film. The transparent film can be adhered to the top of each solar module. The sticker automatically removes dust using electromagnetic waves.

[0021] The aluminum frame (105) is configured to allow the dust cleaning system to be detachably / fixedly mounted / connected / linked to a solar module using fasteners or similar to automatically clean the solar modules using electromagnetic waves based on real-time parameters. The aluminum frame is a crucial component for the structural stability of solar modules. Its primary function is to support the delicate solar cells and protect them from damage caused by wind, lightning, vibration, and other external influences. The aluminum frame (105) also supports thermal management, which is essential for maintaining module efficiency. Since solar cells generate heat, the aluminum frame acts as a heat sink, dissipating excess heat into the environment. This prevents overheating and ensures that the solar module operates at optimal temperatures, extending its lifespan.In addition, aluminum's low weight makes it an ideal material for solar modules.

[0022] The transparent film contains at least one layer of a printed micro-scale electrode array (120) within the film. This array emits focused electromagnetic waves to effectively remove dirt / dust. The printed electrode array emits specific frequencies of electromagnetic waves in the ELF range (3 to 30 Hz) and VLF range (3 kHz to 30 kHz), thus removing dirt without touching the surface of the solar module.

[0023] Fig.shows the schematic representation of the electromagnetic cleaning system for solar modules according to an embodiment of the present invention. The top layer of an optically clear adhesive (115) ensures a secure bond between the upper dielectric layer and the printed electrode. The upper dielectric layer provides electrical insulation and guides sunlight to the PV module. It is an integral part of both products and provides electrical insulation and guides sunlight to the PV module (130). This layer is also very important for protecting the printed electrodes, thereby ensuring the durability of the solar module. The main reason for choosing the dielectric layer is its high transparency and electrical insulating properties, which make it an integral part of both retrofit and inline products.

[0024] The bottom layer of optically clear adhesive (125) ensures the secure bond of the PV module to the printed electrode. The PV module converts sunlight into electricity. Without influence from the optical properties of the solar module, the optically clear adhesive bonds the layers. This provides strong adhesion and transparency for effective sunlight capture. With or without the PV module, the adhesive ensures a secure bond of the entire assembly between the dielectric layer and the printed electrodes. The adhesive between the printed electrodes and the PV module creates a clear, permanent bond that holds the components together while allowing light to pass through. This layer is designed to resist damage from sunlight and temperature fluctuations, ensuring that the bond remains strong and effective over time, supporting the long-term performance of the PV module.

[0025] The self-healing adhesive layer (155) is configured to independently repair tiny damages to maintain the long-term structural integrity and performance of the film.

[0026] The ATMEGA 328 motherboard (135) is configured to independently make decisions about transmitting electromagnetic waves through the foil based on signals received from sensors, the Wi-Fi module, and the cloud server. The ATMEGA 328 motherboard is the central control component of the system. It processes the input signals from various sensors (temperature and voltage), controls the communication modules (Wi-Fi), and controls the printed electrodes via relay drivers. The motherboard thus ensures optimal coordination of activities according to environmental conditions and commands.

[0027] The PV module / solar mirror (130) is the central unit of the solar module and converts sunlight into electricity. In retrofit products, the existing PV module is used, while in inline products, it is part of the entire manufacturing process. The combination of the dielectric layer and printed electrodes with the PV module improves the performance of the solar module.

[0028] The temperature sensor continuously monitors the ambient temperature and transmits it to the system in real time. It can adjust system operation or even send information to the user if the temperature exceeds a relatively safe limit for the solar modules. This ensures that the system operates under optimal conditions; if the modules begin to overheat, they are protected. The voltage sensor measures the amount of energy generated by the solar modules. If the sensor detects a significant voltage drop, this indicates dust or dirt on the module surface. The system then automatically initiates a cleaning cycle via printed electrodes to remove the dust from the module. The relay drivers control external devices, in this case the printed electrodes.

[0029] The relay driver automatically switches the printed electrodes on and off after receiving signals from the motherboard to activate the dust removal process. The electromagnetic waves emitted by the printed electrodes repel dust, ensuring that nothing sticks to the surface of the solar panel and thus unhindered its efficiency. This non-contact and non-invasive dust removal method is ideal for dusty conditions and is an excellent method for maintaining solar panels. The Wi-Fi module (140) enables real-time system communication via the ATMEGA 328 motherboard with a cloud server. This connection allows for remote monitoring of the system and implementation of changes. Remote monitoring, control, and updating of the system are carried out via a mobile monitoring unit, allowing the user to make flexible adjustments.The system can be battery-powered and therefore remains functional even when the solar energy is exhausted. For example, the system operates at night or in adverse weather conditions. This ensures that the sensors, printed electrodes, and other components function properly.

[0030] The data, including the recorded temperature and voltage values, is uploaded to the cloud server for storage and analysis. This enables real-time performance monitoring and data-driven decision-making. This includes remote monitoring of solar panel performance, scheduling cleaning operations, and receiving system alerts via the mobile monitoring interface. Furthermore, weather forecasts can be incorporated into the cleaning schedule to optimize resource utilization during dust storms or other adverse conditions.

[0031] IoT integration allows the system to dynamically adjust its operation as real-time data is received. For example, the system can adjust the intensity or frequency of the cleaning cycle depending on dust levels or weather conditions. The mobile monitoring area allows users to remotely control the system and ensures that the solar panels are operating at maximum efficiency at all times. This is done proactively and maximizes the energy yield of the solar panels.

[0032] The film is made of durable, solar-clear materials, making it unobtrusive while still offering continuous cleaning capabilities. A microelectrode array is imprinted into the film, generating focused electromagnetic waves that enable effective cleaning of dirt. The entire process is non-invasive and therefore does not require cleaning techniques based on water or mechanical filtration, which are typically very cumbersome to use and have a long-term impact on solar modules.

[0033] The film is equipped with 150 real-time monitoring sensors that continuously record dust levels and module performance, enabling automatic cleaning based on ambient conditions. The system can even adjust the cleaning frequency based on weather forecasts to optimize energy consumption by delaying cleaning during adverse conditions such as dust storms or rain. Another advantage of an IoT platform for remote access and control of the system is the convenient ability to monitor and control the solar modules' performance from anywhere in the world. The film also contains a self-healing adhesive layer that automatically repairs minor damage, ensuring long-term performance without maintenance costs.

[0034] The entire system is self-sufficient, as it utilizes the energy generated by the home's own solar panels. This not only reduces operating costs but also extends the lifespan of the solar panels, as there's no risk of dust and dirt constantly entering through the windows. The system is scalable to any system size and can be retrofitted to existing panels, making it suitable for use in residential and commercial solar power systems. The proposed energy system reduces manual labor and the consumption of natural resources such as water. This makes solar panel maintenance cost-effective and environmentally friendly, thus increasing overall energy production for a greener future.

[0035] The examples of the present invention described above are for illustrative purposes only. Although the present invention has been described using a specific example, numerous modifications are possible without materially affecting the teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, and changes are possible without departing from the spirit of the present solution. All of the features and / or steps of the methods or processes described in this specification (including the appended claims, the abstract, and the drawings) and / or all steps of the methods or processes described therein may be combined in any way, except for combinations in which at least some of these features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.Although the embodiments described herein are described in terms of various specific embodiments, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein with modifications. List of reference symbols: 100 Solar Module Cleaning System 105 aluminum frames 110 Upper dielectric layer 115 Upper adhesive layer 120 Printed electrode array 125 Lower adhesive layer 130 PV modules 135 ATMEGA 328 Motherboard 140 WLAN module 145 cloud servers 150 sensor module 155 Self-healing adhesive layer.

Claims

[1] A system (100) for cleaning solar modules with electromagnetic waves, comprising: an aluminum frame (105) configured to allow the dust cleaning system to be removably / permanently installed / mounted / connected to a solar module by means of fasteners or the like to automatically clean the solar modules with electromagnetic waves based on real-time parameters; a transparent film comprising at least one layer of a micro-scale printed electrode array (120) within the film, configured to emit focused electromagnetic waves to effectively clean dirt / dust, wherein the printed electrode array emits specific frequencies of electromagnetic waves in the ELF range (3 to 30 Hz) and VLF range (3 kHz to 30 kHz) to loosen dirt without contacting the surface of the solar module; an upper layer of optically clear adhesive (115) which ensures the secure connection of the upper dielectric layer to the printed electrode, wherein the upper dielectric layer (110) provides electrical insulation and transmits sunlight to the PV module; a lower layer of optically clear adhesive (125) which ensures the secure connection of the PV module to the printed electrode, wherein the PV module converts sunlight into electricity; a self-healing adhesive layer (155) that repairs even the smallest damage to maintain the long-term structural integrity and performance of the film; an ATMEGA 328 motherboard (135) that independently controls the emission of electromagnetic waves through the foil based on the signals received from sensors, WLAN module and cloud server. [2] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the dimensions of the aluminum frames can be adjusted depending on the size of the solar modules. [3] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors (150) measure the ambient / solar module temperature and calculate the voltage generated by the solar module. [4] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the self-healing adhesive layer (155) can be applied to the top or bottom of the transparent film to automatically repair small damages. [5] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the WLAN module (140) sends and receives the parameters detected in real time to one or more locations to remotely control the system. [6] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the transparent adhesive film removes dust and dirt from the solar modules without chemicals, water, or scrubbers. [7] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the main board (135) automatically activates the system to clean the modules upon heavy dust detection, high voltage drop, or low power. [8] The electromagnetic wave solar module cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cloud server (145) is configured to store the previously acquired / executed information based on the instructions of the authenticated users, the server being accessible by the authenticated users from one or more locations via one or more handheld devices.

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