Photovoltaic Panel Support with Integrated Air Cleaning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current photovoltaic panel cleaning systems, such as robotic and compressed air systems, face inefficiencies and high energy costs due to mechanical complexity and water usage, with compressed air systems being uneconomical for large or hard-to-reach installations due to low cleanliness rates and energy absorption.
Innovation Solution
A multifunctional structure that integrates a compressed air conduction system within the panel support structure for simultaneous installation and cleaning, utilizing sensors and electronic control for smart, automatic dust removal, eliminating mechanical components and optimizing cleaning frequency based on environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If compressed air systems are used for cleaning photovoltaic panels, then water usage is eliminated and mechanical movement is reduced, but the cleanliness rate significantly decreases and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the support structure function with the air conduction function into a single integrated structure. The support profile includes internal channels that guide compressed air from the ground level up to the panel surface, merging structural support and cleaning media delivery into one component system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves multiple functions: mechanical support for the panel, guidance for compressed air flow, and housing for the cleaning nozzles. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cleaning equipment and reduces overall system complexity.
2Device complexity
If compressed air systems are used for cleaning photovoltaic panels, then mechanical movement components are reduced, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the air conduction function from separate cleaning equipment and integrates it into the support structure itself. The channels are built into the support profiles, removing the need for external air delivery mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure serves itself by incorporating air channels that deliver compressed air directly to the panel surface through the structure's own components. The nozzles are integrated into the support profile, allowing the structure to perform its own cleaning function.
3Device complexity
If compressed air systems are used for cleaning photovoltaic panels, then system simplicity is improved, but the cleanliness rate and economic viability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies compressed air at specific locations where dust accumulation occurs most, using nozzles positioned at the panel edges and center. The air flow is directed locally at contamination points rather than applying uniform cleaning across the entire surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent delivers compressed air from a third dimension (from below through the support structure) rather than only from the panel front surface. This vertical air delivery path allows cleaning without requiring lateral movement or complex positioning mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If traditional cleaning systems are used for hard-to-reach locations such as building roofs, then operator safety risks increase and accessibility becomes difficult, but automated compressed air systems are uneconomical
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure performs self-cleaning by delivering compressed air through its own integrated channels and nozzles. No external operators or separate cleaning equipment are needed, making the system economically viable for hard-to-reach locations like building roofs where manual cleaning is dangerous and complex robotic systems are too expensive.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances energy productivity by effectively removing dust at initial deposition phases, reducing structural and energy costs, and allowing for automated, efficient cleaning of photovoltaic panels without operator intervention, especially in dusty or hard-to-reach locations.
Implementation Method 1
a flow of compressed air coming from a source of compressed air and intended to feed a distribution of nozzles arranged to dispense the flow of compressed air towards the sensitive surface of the panels
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
Multifunction structure for the support of one or more photovoltaic panels (P) provided with a sensitive surface (7) exposed to solar radiation above an installation surface (C), comprising a load-bearing tubular structure (2) provided with fixing means (9, 11) for fixing to one or more panels (P), wherein said tubular structure comprises at least one tubular element (2) provided with at least one inlet (5) for a compressed air flow and a distribution of nozzles (6) for dispensing one or more compressed air flows directed towards the sensitive surface (7) of the panel (P).