Smart Solar Panel Cleaner with Integrated Water Tank and Tracked Mobility

DOI

No DOI

Published In

Volume 6, Issue 2 (2025)

Published Online

March-April 2025

Pages

62-67

Article Type

Original Article

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No DOI available for cross-reference

The "Smart Solar Panel Cleaner with Integrated Water Tank and Tracked Mobility" presents a novel approach to maintaining solar panel efficiency by automating the cleaning process. Solar panels are pivotal to sustainable energy production, yet their performance deteriorates significantly when dust, dirt and grime accumulate on their surfaces. Manual cleaning methods are time-consuming, hazardous, and impractical for large-scale installations, necessitating an innovative and efficient alternative. This research introduces a smart cleaning robot equipped with a roller brush powered by a geared DC motor and an integrated water sprayer connected to an onboard tank for effective debris removal. The robot features rubber caterpillar tracks to ensure stability on slick and uneven panel surfaces, while RF wireless control enables remote and user-friendly operation. A motorized pump system supplies water through a pipe to the front brush, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning mechanism. Designed for applications ranging from large solar farms to small rooftop installations, the system supports motorized mobility with four DC motors, enabling navigation across extensive solar arrays. Key features include compact design, remote operation, and efficient cleaning action, offering an eco-friendly solution to enhance solar panel performance. This study highlights the potential of integrating advanced robotics and mobility technologies to provide a sustainable, safe, and scalable solution for maintaining solar energy systems. The findings contribute to the broader adoption of solar energy by addressing critical maintenance challenges and optimizing energy production efficiency.