Cleaning brush for the surface cleaning of solar modules

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention provides a cleaning apparatus specifically designed to clean the surfaces of multiple solar modules that are installed adjacent to each other and at an incline. The apparatus features a driving mechanism that moves along the upper edge of the solar panels and a rotating, elongated cylindrical brush made of multiple interconnecting brush elements. The brush can be easily adjusted in length to match the width of the solar array, and is supported and guided along the panels, effectively cleaning their surfaces as it moves. Additional features like water nozzles and dirt-detection sensors can be integrated for enhanced and automated cleaning performance.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Routine cleaning and maintenance of large solar power farms to maximize energy efficiency.
• Automated or semi-automated cleaning systems for commercial or residential solar installations.
• Cleaning inclined arrays such as those found on rooftops, carports, or ground-mounted solar panels.
• Reducing manual labor and cleaning time in utility-scale photovoltaic installations.
• Integration into solar farm management systems for scheduled, sensor-driven, or remote-controlled cleaning operations.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Provides uniform and complete cleaning of adjacent, inclined solar modules, improving overall solar energy efficiency.
• Adaptable to different solar panel array sizes due to modular brush design, reducing the need for custom equipment.
• Simplifies maintenance with an automated and mechanically straightforward cleaning solution.
• Reduces operational costs by minimizing manual labor and cleaning downtime.
• Features like water spraying and dirt sensors offer efficient cleaning with resource optimization (e.g., using collected rainwater).
• Prevents accumulation of dirt that could otherwise lead to long-term performance degradation or damage to solar panels.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

A cleaning apparatus for the surface cleaning of a plurality of solar modules arranged adjacent to one another and at an angle with respect to the horizontal, comprising at least one drive device connected to at least one common upper edge region of the solar modules and capable of travelling in a first direction for moving the cleaning apparatus