REMOTE OPERATED SOLAR PANEL CLEANER

Abstract

Remote Operated Solar Panel Cleaner invention is designed to autonomously clean solar panels, ensuring optimal energy generation. It features a rolling brush mechanism for effective cleaning, capable of both dry and wet cleaning modes. The device is controlled via Bluetooth, allowing for remote operation using a smartphone or tablet. Equipped with a self-charging system utilizing solar panels, the robot ensures continuous operation without external power sources, promoting sustainability. A self-cleaning brush mechanism allows for efficient maintenance of the cleaning brushes after each cycle. The cleaner is designed to navigate the panel surface autonomously or manually, adjusting to different angles for comprehensive cleaning. It also includes safety features such as obstacle detection to protect the panels during operation. The system’s modular design allows for easy maintenance, with components like the brush, water tank, and motor system being replaceable. The invention provides an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and labour-saving solution for maintaining solar panels.

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it is to be performed.

TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The present invention discusses an innovative robot designed for the efficient cleaning of solar panels. Equipped with a rolling brush mechanism and controlled via Bluetooth, it autonomously removes dust and debris, ensuring optimal energy generation

BACKGROUND
[002] Solar panels are increasingly used globally as a reliable source of renewable energy, providing a sustainable solution to the growing energy demand. However, one of the critical challenges faced by solar energy systems is the accumulation of dust, debris, and grime on the surface of solar panels. This accumulation significantly reduces the efficiency of solar panels, leading to decreased energy generation.
[003] The current methods for cleaning solar panels, primarily manual cleaning, are labour-intensive, time-consuming, and not cost-effective. Moreover, manual cleaning often requires water, which is not always readily available, especially in water-scarce regions. This worsens the issue, particularly in areas where solar energy is most needed, such as arid regions.
[004] US8771432B2 patent discusses system and method for cleaning rows of solar panels. Each Solar row has an upper edge elevated above ground level and a lower edge to provide an inclination of the solar row. A cleaning assembly cleans the Solar panel Surfaces. A Support frame Supports the cleaning assembly and enables upward and downward motion in the width and length directions of the solar row. Operation and movement of the cleaning assembly is controlled so as to clean a Surface of the Solar panels during downward movement. The cleaning assembly is preferably not operative during upward movement. During downward movement, the cleaning assembly removes dirt, debris and dust from the surface of the solar panels and generates an air stream to blow off the dirt, debris, and dust. The system further includes a guide system for moving the cleaning assembly to align with successive solar panel rows. However, the cleaner is operative only in downward direction and not in upward direction. Also, only dry cleaning of panels take place. Lastly, it is relying on an external power source to recharge the cleaner's battery.
[005] KR102474107B1 patent discusses a photovoltaic (PV) module cleaning system that includes a robotic cleaning device and a support system. The support system may be configured to provide a metered charge to the robotic cleaning device. In some embodiments, the robotic cleaning apparatus includes a curved cleaning head. Various techniques for operating a robotic cleaning device on a PV module include out-and-back, leapfrog, among other techniques. However, no roller brush mechanism is used. Simple brush is used for wet cleaning.
[006] CN108941005B invention relates to a water-saving solar power generation panel cleaning device with a good cleaning effect, which comprises a main body, a base, a cleaning mechanism, and a collecting mechanism. The cleaning mechanism comprises a moving assembly and a flushing assembly. The moving assembly includes a moving plate and two control units. The flushing assembly consists of a driving unit and a flushing unit. The collecting mechanism includes a water collecting assembly and a cleaning assembly. In this water-conservation type solar panel cleaning device, through the wiper mechanism, multiple shower nozzles can be controlled to carry out a comprehensive washing process on the solar panel, preventing the accumulation of dirt and ensuring effective cleaning. However, a wiper is used for cleaning, making it effective only for wet cleaning and not suitable for dry cleaning. Besides, the device relies on an external power source to recharge the cleaner's battery.
[007] Therefore, there is a clear need for an innovative solution that addresses current gaps by providing an automated, sustainable, and flexible cleaning system for solar panels. An ideal solution would offer both dry and wet cleaning methods to adapt to different environmental conditions, be powered by the same solar panels it cleans to eliminate the need for external power sources, and operate autonomously, reducing labour costs and manual effort. Additionally, it should feature a self-cleaning mechanism for the brushes to ensure continuous operation with minimal maintenance and be versatile enough to clean solar panels of varying sizes, inclinations, and installations.

SUMMARY
[008] The present invention is related to a system and method for autonomously clean solar panels, ensuring optimal energy generation. It features a rolling brush mechanism for effective cleaning, capable of both dry and wet cleaning modes.
[009] In one of the embodiments is shown that solar panel cleaner operates without manual intervention, using a rolling brush mechanism to sweep dust and debris from the surface of solar panels.
[010] The A rotating brush ensures effective cleaning while maintaining the integrity of the panels. The brush is designed to balance firmness and softness, ensuring thorough cleaning.
[011] The system supports both dry and wet cleaning. Dry cleaning utilizes the brush alone, while wet cleaning releases water from a detachable tank to clean more stubborn dirt
[012] The cleaner can be controlled remotely via a Bluetooth connection, allowing for manual or programmed operation from a smartphone or tablet.
[013] The robot charges its battery using the same solar panels it cleans, ensuring continuous operation without relying on external power sources.
[014] After the cleaning cycle, the rolling brush can be detached and placed in a separate self-cleaning system to remove accumulated dirt and debris
[015] The rolling brush pressure can be adjusted to avoid damaging the panels while ensuring effective cleaning.
[016] The system can clean panels installed at varying angles by adjusting its movement and cleaning path, ensuring comprehensive cleaning.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[017] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[018] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[019] Figure 1 shows the solar panel cleaning model.
[020] Figure 2 represents the flow chart of remote operated solar panel cleaner.
[021] Figure 3 represents the prototype image of remote operated solar panel cleaner.
[022] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[023] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[024] The current invention relates to a remote operated solar panel cleaner, designed to autonomously clean solar panels, ensuring optimal energy generation. It features a rolling brush mechanism for effective cleaning, capable of both dry and wet cleaning modes.
[025] In one embodiment is described that describes a solar panel cleaner that operates autonomously. Equipped with a rolling brush mechanism, the device can clean solar panels without the need for manual intervention. It navigates the surface of the panels, removing dust and debris, ensuring that the panels can operate at maximum efficiency
[026] The invention features a specialized rolling brush system for cleaning. The rotating brush sweeps across the surface of solar panels, effectively dislodging dirt, dust, and debris without causing damage to the delicate surfaces of the panels. The brush's bristles are designed to strike the perfect balance between firmness and softness, ensuring efficient cleaning while maintaining the integrity of the solar panel surfaces.
[027] This embodiment introduces both dry and wet cleaning methods. In the dry mode, the rolling brush removes dust and debris from the panels without any liquid. In wet cleaning mode, a water tank releases a controlled stream of water onto the panels while the brush scrubs them clean. This dual-mode cleaning system makes the device versatile and particularly suitable for different environments, including areas with water scarcity.
[028] The solar panel cleaner operates through a Bluetooth-controlled system. The operator can control and monitor the cleaning process via a smartphone or remote device, giving them the ability to start, stop, or alter the cleaning pattern from a distance. This wireless control provides flexibility and ease of operation for the user
[029] A crucial feature of the device is its self-charging capability. The robot is equipped with solar cells that allow it to recharge its battery using the same solar panels it cleans. This ensures a sustainable and continuous operation without the need for external charging sources, promoting eco-friendly practices.
[030] After cleaning the solar panels, the brush itself can become dirty. To address this, the robot includes a self-cleaning brush mechanism. The brush can be detached and placed in a separate system designed to clean it thoroughly, ensuring the brush is ready for the next cleaning cycle.
[031] This embodiment emphasizes the device's ability to operate in water-scarce regions by relying primarily on its dry cleaning mode. In areas where water is available, the wet cleaning mode can be utilized. The device's capacity to adapt to these varying conditions ensures its usability across different geographic regions.
[032] The solar panel cleaner can follow a pre-programmed path across the surface of solar panels. The robot's motor driver system ensures precise movement along the panels, enabling thorough cleaning. The automated navigation feature reduces the need for constant human supervision during the cleaning process.
[033] For wet cleaning, the robot is equipped with a water tank that dispenses water as needed during the cleaning process. The water tank is detachable, allowing easy refilling and maintenance. The controlled release of water ensures efficient use of resources, which is especially important in regions where water is limited
[034] The solar panel cleaner has a compact, modular design. This allows the system to be easily transported, assembled, or disassembled as needed. The modular components, such as the rolling brush, water tank, and control units, can be replaced or upgraded independently, ensuring longevity and ease of maintenance
[035] The solar panel cleaner is designed to have an extended battery life, allowing it to clean large arrays of solar panels without frequent recharging. The combination of a self-sustaining solar charging system and efficient power management ensures the robot can operate for long periods, minimizing downtime.
[036] The motor control system of the device is optimized for energy efficiency. By using a motor driver like the L298N, the cleaner can precisely control the speed and torque of the motors that drive the wheels and the rolling brush. This ensures that the cleaner uses only the amount of energy necessary, reducing waste and extending battery life.
[037] The invention includes safety mechanisms to protect the integrity of the solar panels. The rolling brush is designed to adjust its pressure dynamically, ensuring it does not apply excessive force that could damage the panels. Additionally, the robot includes sensors to detect obstacles or irregular surfaces, preventing accidental damage to the panels during cleaning.
[038] This embodiment describes the cleaner's ability to adapt to different panel inclinations. Solar panels are often installed at varying angles to maximize sun exposure. The robot can adjust its movement and brush mechanism to accommodate these angles, ensuring a consistent and effective cleaning performance regardless of the panel orientation.
[039] To ensure that the cleaner operates optimally, it includes a diagnostic system that can detect potential issues such as motor failures, low battery levels, or blockages in the brush mechanism. This system alerts the operator through the Bluetooth control interface, allowing for quick troubleshooting and maintenance to prevent prolonged downtime
, Claims:A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, comprising:
a) a rolling brush mechanism designed to sweep dust, debris, and grime from solar panels, where the brush rotates to effectively clean the surface without causing damage;
b) a bluetooth controller that establishes a wireless connection with a remote device for manual control of the system, allowing the operator to control the movement and cleaning process;
c) a motor driver connected to the wheels and brush motors to control movement across the solar panel surfaces and the rotation of the cleaning brush;
d) a microcontroller, which processes inputs from the Bluetooth controller, directs the motor driver for movement and brush control, and manages the overall operation of the cleaning system;
e) a self-cleaning brush mechanism, wherein the brush can be detached and placed in a separate cleaning system for the removal of accumulated dirt and debris after each cleaning cycle;
f) a dual-mode cleaning system, enabling both dry cleaning and wet cleaning, where the wet cleaning mode involves the release of water from an attached water tank to assist in the removal of stubborn dirt and grime;
g) a self-sustaining power source, wherein the robot is equipped with solar cells that utilize the same solar panels being cleaned to charge the system's battery, ensuring continuous operation without reliance on external power sources;
h) a navigation system programmed for automated cleaning, allowing the robot to follow a designated cleaning path or to be manually directed using the Bluetooth control device;
i) a compact and modular design allowing the robot to be easily transported, assembled, or disassembled for maintenance, with individual components such as the brush, water tank, and motor system being replaceable or upgradeable.
(2) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rolling brush mechanism has adjustable pressure settings to ensure optimal contact with the solar panel surface, avoiding damage while maintaining cleaning efficiency.
(3) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rolling brush mechanism has adjustable pressure settings to ensure optimal contact with the solar panel surface, avoiding damage while maintaining cleaning efficiency.
(4) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the Bluetooth controller allows the robot to be controlled remotely via a smartphone, tablet, or other wireless device, offering flexibility in initiating and monitoring the cleaning process.
(5) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solar cells used for self-charging are integrated into the robot's design, ensuring that the system can operate continuously during daylight hours without needing external charging sources.
(6) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising sensors that detect obstacles or uneven surfaces on the solar panels, automatically adjusting the robot's path to prevent collisions or damage to the panels.
(7) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the self-cleaning brush mechanism includes a water sprayer and a rotating brush to remove any dirt or debris accumulated on the cleaning brush after the robot has completed a cleaning cycle.
(8) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motor driver includes an energy-efficient control system that regulates the power consumption of the motors driving the wheels and the brush, optimizing battery usage for extended cleaning operations.
(9) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a programmed navigation system that allows the robot to clean in both upward and downward directions across the solar panels, ensuring complete coverage of the panel surface.
(10) A remote-operated solar panel cleaning system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the robot's design is modular, allowing for the easy replacement of key components such as the rolling brush, motor driver, and water tank, extending the operational lifespan of the system

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