Modular Solar Panel Cleaning System for Reduced Downtime and Shading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current solar panel cleaning systems face inefficiencies due to shading and damage, requiring complete system removal for repairs, which is costly and disrupts energy generation, especially in harsh desert environments where water for liquid cleaning is scarce.
Innovation Solution
A modular cleaning system with independent modules that communicate and can be easily replaced, using dry cleaning methods to avoid temperature shocks and logistical challenges, allowing for quick maintenance and adaptation to panel configurations without interfering with the panel structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If liquid cleaning methods are used, then cleaning effectiveness is improved, but heat shock damage to panels and water logistics costs worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the cleaning method from liquid to dry cleaning, fundamentally altering the physical state parameter of the cleaning agent. This resolves the contradiction by eliminating heat shock damage (as no liquid temperature change occurs) and water logistics costs (as no water is used), while maintaining cleaning effectiveness through mechanical dry cleaning mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the liquid-based cleaning system with a mechanical dry cleaning system. Instead of using liquid to dissolve and remove dirt, the system uses mechanical components (brushes, scrapers, or abrasive elements) to physically remove particulate material, thereby avoiding heat shock and water logistics issues while achieving effective cleaning
2Reliability
If complete system removal is performed for repairs, then system reliability is maintained, but productivity and time loss worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the cleaning system into modular, independently replaceable components. Instead of removing the entire system for repairs, only the specific malfunctioning module needs to be replaced. This segmentation allows maintenance without complete system removal, maintaining productivity while ensuring reliability through prompt repairs
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements pre-assembled modular units that can be quickly swapped out. By preparing replacement modules in advance (either in storage or as spares), the system enables rapid replacement without lengthy repair processes, minimizing downtime and maintaining energy generation continuity while ensuring system reliability
3Area of stationary object
If large surface area cleaning systems are used, then cleaning coverage is improved, but shading losses on panels worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a dynamic, movable cleaning system that travels along the panel array rather than a static large-area system. The cleaning modules move sequentially across panels, providing full coverage over time while minimizing instantaneous shading. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by achieving comprehensive cleaning coverage without continuous large-area shading losses
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the cleaning system into multiple small modular units that clean panels sequentially rather than one large system shading multiple panels simultaneously. Each module cleans a small portion at a time, achieving complete coverage through sequential operation while minimizing shading losses at any given moment
Data Source
AI summary
The invention refers to a modular system (1) for cleaning panels or an array of panels (100), comprising: at least two independent modules (10a, 10b) communicating with each other, arranged at the upper and lower ends of the array of panels (100), respectively; and at least one cleaning element (16) arranged transversely to the array of panels (100) between the at least two modules (10a, 10b) by means of couplings (17); wherein each of the modules (10a, 10b) comprises at least one traction element (14) arranged perpendicular to the array of panels (100), wherein said traction element (14) rotates when a force is applied, providing in this way movement to the modules (10a, 10b) through the array of panels (100).