This innovation is a traversal system of an automated cleaning device for solar panel arrays. The traversal system includes a main frame having a first end and a second end distal to the first end. Further, the traversal system includes a plurality of wheels adapted to be driven to move the cleaning device over the solar panel arrays. The plurality of wheels includes a first set of wheels and the second set of wheels disposed. The traversal system includes a plurality of driving units coupled to the first set of wheels and the second set of wheels, and adapted to drive the first set of wheels and the second set of wheels. The traversal system includes a controlling unit in communication with the driving units and configured to receive information indicative of rotation of each of the plurality of wheels from the driving units. The controlling unit is configured to control operation of the driving units, based on the received information, to control angular velocity of each of the first set of wheels and the second set of wheels.
Figure 1. A perspective view of an automated cleaning device with a traversal system for solar panel arrays
Conventional solar panel cleaning devices face challenges when traversing solar panel arrays with misaligned panels. They tend to lose alignment due to wheel slippage, lack of traction, and structural deflection when crossing gaps or discontinuities between adjacent panels. This results in inefficient cleaning, increased downtime, and potential damage to panels or cleaning equipment.
- Independent Wheel Drive System with Motor Encoders: This system provides precise control over each wheel, enabling adaptive traversal even on uneven or misaligned solar panels. The motor encoders allow for real-time feedback and adjustments, ensuring smooth movement and accurate navigation across complex surfaces.
- Maintains Alignment and Minimizes Slippage: By continuously adjusting to panel positions, the system improves cleaning efficiency by staying properly aligned during operation. This also reduces mechanical wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the equipment and lowering maintenance needs.
- Adaptability to Various Linear and Angular Misalignments: The prototype is designed to operate reliably across different solar farm configurations, accommodating a wide range of panel misalignments. This versatility makes it suitable for diverse installations, enhancing its practical applicability.
- Automated Traversal Reduces Manual Intervention: Automation in movement increases operational safety by minimizing the need for human involvement in potentially hazardous cleaning tasks. It also reduces labor costs and downtime, improving overall system efficiency.
- Compact Design for Easy Integration: The prototype’s compact and modular form factor allows seamless integration with existing solar panel cleaning systems or robotic platforms, facilitating upgrades without major modifications to current infrastructure.
The traversal system prototype, mounted on a main frame with two sets of wheels powered by four individual motors equipped with encoders, was tested on a custom-built solar farm simulator featuring a movable platform similar to a Stewart platform. This setup emulated various linear and angular misalignments between solar panels. Testing results demonstrated the system’s capability to consistently traverse panels despite these misalignments while maintaining proper alignment and minimizing slippage.
A field prototype has been manufactured and successfully demonstrated, with tests conducted. It can be fitted on existing large-scale installations.
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The technology enhances the efficiency of solar panel cleaning, which is vital for maximizing energy generation in solar farms. By reducing water and energy consumption during cleaning, it promotes sustainable operations and environmental conservation. Additionally, it improves the reliability and lifespan of cleaning devices, lowering maintenance costs and minimizing downtime. Overall, this supports the broader adoption of solar energy by addressing key operational challenges, contributing to cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy production.
- Solar energy farms
- Automated cleaning and maintenance equipment
- Robotics and Automation in renewable energy
- Environmental technology for sustainable cleaning
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201911012967
541354