Robotic PV Module Cleaner with Dual-Squeegee and Sensor Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Photovoltaic (PV) modules suffer from reduced energy output due to dust, dirt, and other particulates accumulating on their surfaces, which existing cleaning methods fail to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A robotic cleaning device equipped with dual-squeegee configurations, brush elements, and liquid-dispensing units that traverse across PV modules, using sensors to navigate and apply cleaning solutions uniformly, ensuring efficient removal of particulates while adapting to inclined surfaces and varying module geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual cleaning methods are used, then cleaning can be performed, but cleaning effectiveness is insufficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cleaning device autonomously navigates the PV module surface using sensors and automatically performs cleaning operations without human intervention. The system self-manages the entire cleaning process including movement, cleaning head actuation, and adaptation to surface conditions, thereby achieving both high productivity and reliable cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical cleaning with an automated robotic system that uses sensors, motors, and controlled mechanical actuators. The robotic device substitutes human-operated mechanical cleaning with an automated system that maintains consistent cleaning pressure and coverage, improving both speed and effectiveness.
2Reliability
If cleaning pressure is increased to improve particulate removal, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but risk of damaging PV module surface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cleaning device dynamically adjusts the cleaning head pressure applied to the PV module surface based on real-time sensor feedback and surface conditions. The system modulates the force exerted by the cleaning elements to optimize particulate removal while maintaining safe pressure levels that prevent surface damage, thereby resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and surface integrity.
3Reliability
If cleaning liquid is applied generously to ensure coverage, then cleaning effectiveness improves, but liquid consumption and waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cleaning device incorporates sensors that provide real-time feedback on the PV module surface condition, cleaning progress, and liquid distribution. This feedback mechanism allows the system to precisely control and optimize cleaning liquid application, dispensing only the necessary amount required for effective cleaning while minimizing waste and consumption.
4Adaptability or versatility
If robotic cleaning device is designed to handle various module geometries, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic cleaning device is designed with universal cleaning heads and adjustable mechanisms that can accommodate various PV module geometries and orientations. The system uses standardized interfaces and configurable parameters to handle different module types without requiring multiple specialized devices, thereby achieving high adaptability while controlling overall system complexity through modular design.
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
The robotic cleaning system significantly enhances PV module efficiency by effectively removing particulates, maintaining uniform pressure across surfaces, and optimizing cleaning liquid usage, thereby improving energy output and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
the second squeegee element 512 can be disposed behind the first squeegee element 511 in a direction of travel of the robotic cleaning device 400... both of the first and second squeegee elements 511, 512 can be made of rubber or a rubber-like material
Implementation Method 2
The cleaning module 450 can include a brush element 413... the brush element 413 can be a rotating brush having bristles extending radially from a central shaft or rod
Implementation Method 3
A second liquid-dispensing unit 422 can be disposed in the gap between the first squeegee element 511 and the second squeegee element 512
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic (PV) module cleaning system can include a robotic cleaning device and a support system. The support system can be configured to provide a metered fill to the robotic cleaning device. In some embodiments, the robotic cleaning device and include a curved cleaning head. Various techniques for deploying a robotic cleaning device on PV modules include out-and-back, leapfrog, among others.