Performance Analysis of a Solar Panel Cleaning Autonomous Robot (SPCR) with comparative study

摘要

Photovoltaic systems are the largest source of renewable energy. Infinite amount of renewable energy generation is possible if the solar panels perform in its highest efficiency. To ensure environment friendly energy production in an ample scale, the solar panels must be operated with minimum loss. One of the major hindrances to produce solar energy is different types of dust. Cleaning the dusts on the solar panel necessitates innovative techniques as manual cleaning operation is non uniform, time consuming, causes minor injuries to people, displacement of panels, movement difficulties and expensive. The paper proposes an autonomous robot for cleaning the dusts and debris on the solar panel to increase the efficiency of the system. The proposed solar panel cleaning robot (SPCR) utilizes sensors, motors, motor drivers, cameras to strengthen the cleaning operation based on dust types. The cleaning mechanism consists of water tank and duct fan as well. Finally, the performance analysis of the robot for different case studies is evaluated and compared with the existing research outcomes.