Robotic Solar Module Inspection for Front-and-Back Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current monitoring systems for photovoltaic systems, such as solar farms, are inadequate in inspecting both the frontside and backside of solar modules, require human presence, and are costly and inefficient, especially for structure-mounted panels, posing fire hazards and labor challenges.
Innovation Solution
The development of autonomous or semi-autonomous robotic machines equipped with cameras and sensors that can inspect photovoltaic systems from both sides, providing detailed thermal and visual inspections, and utilizing GPS and navigation systems for efficient site mapping and re-inspection management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If aerial drone systems are used for inspection, then coverage area is improved, but inspection completeness deteriorates (cannot inspect backside)
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is segmented into multiple specialized inspection units: aerial drones for overhead coverage and ground-based robots for close-up bilateral inspection. Each segment performs specific inspection tasks, with the ground robot inspecting front and back sides while the aerial drone covers broader areas, together achieving complete inspection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
Ground-based robotic vehicles serve as intermediaries between the aerial inspection system and the solar modules. These robots travel along pathways between rows and perform detailed inspection of both sides of modules, bridging the gap between aerial overview and ground-level detail inspection.
2Measurement precision
If human technicians perform inspection, then inspection quality is improved, but labor cost and safety risk worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system performs self-service through autonomous and semi-autonomous robotic vehicles that navigate, inspect, and document solar module conditions without human intervention. The ground robots independently travel between rows, inspect modules from both sides, and transmit data automatically, eliminating the need for human technicians to physically access hazardous sites.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical and human inspection systems are replaced with automated robotic systems equipped with cameras, thermal sensors, and navigation capabilities. The robots substitute human technicians, providing consistent inspection quality while eliminating exposure to fire hazards, extreme temperatures, and physical labor costs.
3Ease of manufacture
If stationary monitoring systems are used, then installation cost is reduced, but inspection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static stationary monitoring to dynamic mobile inspection. Ground-based robotic vehicles move autonomously along pathways between solar rows, enabling flexible inspection of different locations. The robots can navigate to specific modules requiring inspection and adjust their positioning to inspect both front and back sides, providing adaptability that stationary systems cannot match.
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
Enables comprehensive and efficient inspection of solar modules without human intervention, reducing labor costs and improving safety by identifying potential issues like hotspots, connector health, and fire hazards, while allowing for autonomous operation in large solar sites.
Implementation Method 1
inspect the solar cells thermally from the frontside
Implementation Method 2
The machine can include one or more wheels
Implementation Method 3
The machine can include one or more treads or tracks
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present application describes machines and methods that leverage enabling technologies such as robotics, sensing, machine learning, and wireless internet coverage (e.g., 5G cell coverage) in order to monitor photovoltaic systems such as solar sites. Machines according to the present disclosure can be operated remotely by users to traverse a solar site and perform a series of inspection steps, such as via an online portal.