ISSN: 0973-4929, Vol. 18, No. (3) 2023, Pg.

1032-1045

Current World Environment

www.cwejournal.org

Design and Analysis of Automated Solar Panel Cleaning System

SATISH A. PATIL1*, AMIT R. PATIL2, V. N. CHOUGULE2 and S. T. SANAMDIKAR1

1
PDEA’s College of Engineering, Manjari (Bk), Pune. (MS), India.
2
MES Wadia College of Engineering, Pune. (MS), India.

Abstract
The primary focus of this study was the development of a solar panel
cleaning machine intended for the maintenance of photovoltaic solar panels
after their installation. The study also encompassed detailed analysis Article History
of this machine. The accumulation of dust particles on solar panels presents Received: 08 August 2023
Accepted: 19 December
a significant challenge, as it jeopardizes the optimal functionality of these 2023
panels. By obstructing crucial sunlight, dust diminishes the panels' electricity
production capacity, consequently reducing overall efficiency. Moreover, this Keywords
dust accumulation poses a threat to the integral electrical components of the Electricity; Panel;
panels, potentially causing harm to the embedded silicon wafers through Photovoltaic; Prototype;
Solar; Software;
overheating if left unaddressed. This situation escalates the necessity Simulation.
for post-installation maintenance and escalates associated repair costs.
In response to these challenges, a novel automated mechanism for cleaning
solar panels is introduced in this paper, effectively eliminating dust particles.
The analytical findings strongly indicate that consistent and periodic cleaning
of panels can uphold a stable rate of electricity generation within the power
production system. This innovative system design empowers users to
effortlessly operate the machine in less time, all the while delivering superior
cleaning performance when compared to conventional manual methods. To
establish a competitive edge in the market, it is imperative that the
proposed system presents a cost-effective solution, evaluated in relation
to the number of panels cleaned. Consequently, for the purpose of testing
the proposed system, a solar installation was meticulously designed and
implemented at PDEA’s College of Engineering in Manjari, (Bk.) Pune,
Maharashtra, India. This location was deliberately selected as the experimental
site to facilitate comprehensive investigations of the requisite design metrics.
The prototype was subsequently simulated within this real-world system. This
cleaning system utilizes high-quality microfiber cloth to effectively remove

CONTACT Satish A. Patil [email protected] PDEA’s College of Engineering, Manjari (Bk), Pune. (MS), India.

© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Enviro Research Publishers.

This is an Open Access article licensed under a Creative Commons license: Attribution 4.0 International (CC-BY).
Doi: https://dx.doi.org/10.12944/CWE.18.3.11
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1033

dust from panel surfaces without the need for water, making it suitable for
arid areas. Additionally, provisions have been included for a water sprinkler
to address stubborn stains like bird droppings that cannot be removed
solely with the cloth. The overall impact of this mechanism will result in an
increased rated power output from the panels, which had previously been
compromised due to the mentioned issues.

Introduction even a small area with accumulated dust that blocks

With the increasing adoption of renewable energy a cell can cause a burnout, manifesting as black spots
sources by both industries and residential on the panel. This issue varies based on the specific
consumers, photovoltaic solar panels have arisen surroundings of the installation sites⁵. Industrial
as a pivotal resolution due to their global feasibility areas might emit various particles such as fly ash
and availability. However, certain drawbacks and brick powder, whereas areas with low buildings and
associated with this technology, particularly residential zones could face issues like bird
concerning post-installation maintenance issues droppings. Dry regions like deserts are susceptible
such as dust accumulation, have been identified. to sand accumulation due to frequent sandstorms.
The settling of dirt elements on the solar surfaces This predicament can lead to energy production
of panels can steer to significant harm to their internal reductions of up to 40-50% within specific timeframes,
components¹. The types of suspended particles vary contingent on the location, ultimately undermining
based on the geographical location of the installed the solar system's efficiency and operability.6
system and the surrounding environment. These
particulates have a detrimental impact on the Virtually all overhead residential and commercial
efficiency of these solar technologies, resulting in solar panels are susceptible to dust settlement. The
decreased energy yields and heightened operation undertaking was launched to mitigate consumers'
and maintenance costs². maintenance costs and time, constituting a primary
objective of the endeavour⁷
Diverse solutions exist in the present scenario, but
their applicability depends on the quantity of panels Problem Statement
involved. For instance, extensive solar parks, such The presence of airborne particulates settling on
as large-scale solar power plants, employ automated solar panels can significantly impact the functioning
solar panel cleaning mechanisms³. While effective, of the embedded photovoltaic cells. These light-
these mechanisms tend to be operationally expensive, sensitive cells are responsible for converting solar
making them feasible primarily for sizable solar energy into electricity, making it crucial to ensure
parks. Conversely, smaller systems rely on manual an ample sunlight source through proper alignment
labour for cleaning, a risky endeavour in extreme according to the geographic characteristics of the
conditions that poses potential harm to personnel installation site. These particles obstruct the required
and system integrity due to the methods employed³ amount of sunlight, leading to insufficient energy
(such as brushing that may damage panel surfaces). production.2 Additionally, the hindrance caused
by these particles can result in severe damage
The settling of airborne particulates on solar to the silicon wafers inside. For instance, if dust
panels can profoundly affect the functionality of the accumulates and blocks a small area of a cell, it
embedded photovoltaic cells. Given that these light- can cause the essential element within the cell to
sensitive cells facilitate the transformation of solar to burn, resulting in the appearance of black spots on
electrical energy, proper alignment according to the panel's surface.3
that installation site's geographical conditions is
vital⁴. Dust particles obstruct the necessary sunlight, The severity of this problem varies from one
leading to insufficient energy production, and the location to another, depending on the environmental
hindrance they create can result in severe damage surroundings of the installation sites. Industrial areas
to the silicon wafers within the panels. For example, may emit various types of particles such as fly ash
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1034

and brick powder, while areas with low buildings and modest number of solar panels. While this market
residential neighbourhoods might face issues with offers installation opportunities, the challenge arises
bird droppings.4 In dry regions like deserts, sand from the relatively small number of panels owned
accumulation from frequent sandstorms can cover by individual homeowners, making it necessary
the panels. This problem can lead to a substantial for any cleaning system targeting this market to be
reduction of 40-50% in energy production within exceptionally cost-effective. After careful evaluation,
a specific timeframe, depending on the location. it was decided not to target this market due to
Consequently, the overall efficiency of the solar the difficulty of achieving cost objectives within a
system diminishes, making it challenging to operate reasonable timeframe.
and rendering it less effective.5
The secondary market encompasses sizable
Objectives commercial entities leveraging extensive solar
The objectives of this work were arrays to enhance energy production and enhance
their environmental sustainability ratings. The
1. Design an automated solar panel cleaning advantage of this market lies in the larger scale
mechanism for effective dust removal from the of solar panels, which results in greater profit
photovoltaic panels without causing any damage to margins for potential cleaning unit installations.
the panel surface.6
However, the most promising and opportune market
2. Cleaning mechanism which can effectively run involves solar farms consisting of substantial solar
without any human intervention with the help of panel arrays. These solar farms hold significant
different sensors. potential for the cleaning system due to their expansive
scale and substantial panel count. The goal is to
3. Design a frame on which the cleaning mechanism develop a solar panel cleaning system that surpasses
can be housed and it can be mobilized with ease manual labour in terms of speed and consistency
without any effort.6 while addressing safety concerns associated
with cleaning panels in hazardous locations. The
4. To determine appropriate material for the cleaning aim is to create a device capable of efficiently
cloth and the frame of the mechanism for appropriate cleaning an entire row of solar panels, ultimately
functioning enhancing panel efficiency after each cleaning cycle.
To remain competitive in the market, plans are in
5. Fabricate the machine with locally available raw place to provide a cost-effective solution tailored to
materials procured at an economical rate. the number of panels cleaned.

Customer Search Drawing inspiration from PDEA’s College of

In this investigation, three distinct prospective Engineering Manjari, which serves as an exemplary
marketplaces for cleaning the solar panel system were solar installation, the necessary design measure-
identified, each characterized by unique attributes. ments were obtained, and the prototype was
The primary market targets residential homeowners simulated on that system. The college features
seeking solar solutions, typically characterized by a commercial-sized solar arrays, as depicted in Figure 1.

Fig. 1: Commercial sized solar arrays installed.

 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1035

Furthermore, the significance of aligning the United States. Notably, the study discovered that
system's lifespan with that of a solar panel, which yellow-colored dirt had a less detrimental influence
typically spans around 30 years, was recognized. on solar panel efficiency as compared to other
Consequently, the primary emphasis during the types of dirt, particularly those in various shades
design phase was placed on enhancing durability of red. The findings underscored the importance of
and ensuring long-term sustainability. 7 Given considering the specific characteristics of regional
the environmental challenges in Pune, including dirt compositions when assessing the potential
drought and atmospheric conditions, dedication impact on solar panel performance, providing
was directed toward the creation of a cleaning valuable insights for optimizing solar energy systems
system that minimizes water usage in the cleaning in the south-west.
process, thereby promoting eco-friendliness and
sustainability.8 The figure 2 illustrates the I-V characteristics of PV
panels before and after cleaning, showing an
Literature Review increase in power output after the cleaning of the
The insights into the impact of soiling on solar PV panels.5
panels have been gleaned from research supported
by universities and associations dedicated to solar
energy. These studies delved into various facets
of soiling, exploring its effects on solar panel
performance.3

The research conducted by Boston University's

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
uncovered a significant 24% decrease in efficiency
attributed to soiling in Lovington, New Mexico,
over a one-month period. Notably, the study
emphasized that while rain serves as a primary
cleaning agent for solar panels, it is not entirely
sufficient for optimal performance. The Boston Fig. 2: I-V characteristics of the PV panel
University study also undertook a comprehensive
analysis of costs and benefits associated with According to research conducted by Rashmi Chawla
three prevailing solar panel cleaning methods. at YMCA University of Science and Technology,5
These approaches encompass regular cleaning dust gathering on panels significantly impacts their
via raining, manual cleaning, or cleaning concert parameters. Therefore, adopting appropriate
facilitated by an electrodynamics system (EDS). techniques to mitigate losses caused by dust is
The findings indicated that for rain to maximize its essential. Regularly cleaning solar panels to remove
cleaning effect, panels should be equipped with dust and other debris from their surfaces remains a
a glass shield and positioned in a near-vertical key solution to minimize energy losses and sustain
orientation. Manual cleaning, involving water and panel efficiency.
detergent, was identified as effective but incurred
notable labour costs (constituting 45.7% of the total Methodology
cost) and fuel costs (constituting 20.5% of the total Methodological Approach
cost). The research thus provided valuable insights The foundational pillars of the methodology included
into the multifaceted considerations involved in Data Accumulation and Analysis, Design, Simulation
maintaining optimal solar panel performance in the and Analysis, Optimization, and Experimental Testing.
face of soiling challenges. Design considerations were applied after analyzing
the data from primary and secondary sources,
The IEEE study led by P. Burton and B. King delved encompassing both quantitative and qualitative
into the impact of diverse types of dirt on solar panel aspects. A CAD model was created, taking into
efficiency, with a specific focus on the compositions account all the necessary parameters resulting from
commonly encountered in the south-western the data analysis.
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1036

Subsequently, Simulation, Analysis, and Optimization Design

were performed for the entire design structure and Solar Panel
individually for the major components. A series of To gain insights into the challenges faced by the
experiments was accompanied to appraise the company, a comprehensive analysis of the solar panel's
performance of that system. location was conducted, emphasizing the significance
of its positioning.
In future, Simulation, Analysis, and Optimization will be
carried out for the overall design structure and major The solar panel at PDEA's College of Engineering,
components. A set of experiments will be conducted Manjari, is manufactured by WAAREE and belongs
to assess the functionality of the cleaning system.9 to the WS-330 module. Its electrical characteristics
Depending on the experimental feedback, if the results under Standard Test Conditions (STC) are as
are to be positive and as expected, a scale- follows.11
down model will be manufactured at the same
college in the Mechanical engineering department. • Nominal Maximum Power (Pm): 330 W
If the outcomes deviate from expectations, a review • Circuit Voltage : 46.70 Volt
of the design, analysis, and optimization is to be • Short Circuit Current: 9.25 Amp.
conducted to address the noted aspects for redesign.10 • Voltage at Max. Power: 37.95 Volt.
• Current at Max. Power: 8.70 Amp.
Upon successful completion of the scale-down • Max. Voltage: 1500 Volt DC
prototype, efforts will be directed towards making it user- • Maximum Series Fuse Rating: 15 Amp.
friendly through the development of a mobile app • L x W x T: 1960 x 990 x 40 dimensions in mm.
and ensuring ease of assembly and disassembly. • Weight: 22.50 kg

Fig. 3: WAAREE Solar Panel CAD design

These specifications are evaluated under STC on the CAD model for the sake of convenience in
conditions, which include 1000 W/m2 of irradiance, simulating the cleaning machine on it. The design
AM 1.5 spectrum, and the cell temperature is 25°C. is as shown in Figure 4.

For the Simulation, the Solar panels situated on Locomotion Unit

the terrace of same college mentioned above were The Locomotion Unit plays a vital part in facilitating
first designed. Exact measurements were taken the machine movement across the panel. Initially, the
on-site, and based on those measurements, rough machine's design features a progressing brush that
2D figures were created. Using CATIA V5 software, smoothly traverses along a series of solar panels.
these 2D figures were subsequently transformed into To achieve this, the machine securely attaches
a 3D design. Given that the Solar panel arrangement to the panel arrangement with rollers that hold the
comprises 60 panels, only a few were designed panel's edge of frame, effectively utilizing them as
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1037

rails for seamless movement. The primary cleaning clears any accumulated dust or debris on the
mechanism involves a spinning brush that effectively panel surface.11

Fig. 4: Structure of solar panel system along with dimensions

Fig. 5: CAD deign of solar panel structure

The system is designed for application on large-scale installed for safety reasons and to prevent damage
commercial solar arrays commonly found on school to the solar panels. In the event of a wheel failure
campuses and within industrial settings. Users that may cause the machine to tip over, given the
can easily install the machine onto a panel array and angle of the solar panels, these L-shaped channels
leave it to operate autonomously. The machine is will serve to prevent the machine from falling and
designed to function without the need for human control will secure the machine in a suspended position on
or regular maintenance, providing a user-friendly and the solar panel frame itself.
efficient solution for solar panel cleaning.11
Plastic wheels are provided to grip on the Solar panel
The two L-shaped channels are positioned at the structure frame and get the proper traction for the
top of the mainframe. These L-shaped channels are movement of the machine.
PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1038

Fig. 6: Dimensions of Main frame

Fig. 7: Main frame CAD design

Fig. 8: Wheel dimensions

 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1039

Roller Frame different solar systems and customer requirements

The Roller Frame is maintained as a separate while retaining the same main frame. The Roller
component from the Mainframe. Given the diverse frame is designed with C sections, allowing it to be
orientations and sizes of solar panels available in the attached to the mainframe using nuts and bolts.
market, the decision has been made to keep the Through this configuration, the same Mainframe
Roller frame distinct. This Roller frame will can be employed for various arrangements of solar
accommodate the shaft and motor for the cleaning panel systems.
brushes and can be adjusted in size to align with

Fig. 9: Roller frame

Roller/ Cleaning Brush In an automated solar panel cleaning machine,

In automated solar panel cleaning machines, soft nylon brushes are utilized to clean the panel.
the material employed for the cleaning brushes These brushes, which are rotating brushes mounted
plays a crucial role. The machine utilizes rotating on the shaft, facilitate the self-cleaning process after
brushes made of thread-like bristles crafted from dust removal. A sprinkler is also employed for this
scratch-resistant material to clean photovoltaic purpose.
and solar panels. This material ensures effective
dirt removal without causing damage to the solar
panel. Additionally, a water supply system or other
detergent solution is positioned in front to proactively
address the dirt to be removed.11

Fig. 11: Cleaning brush

Assembly and Simulation

The cleaning unit is set into operation by moving
back and forth along the solar panel. Equipped with
a clockwise-rotating cylindrical brush, it travels along
the axis of the solar panel, effectively guiding dust
along its path of motion and ultimately blustering it
away at the edge of panel. Upon reaching the end
Fig. 10: Cleaning brush CAD design
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1040

of the row of solar panels, the direction is reversed, Simulation is carried out with the assistance of Catia
and the cleaning unit returns to its starting point. V5. After the assembly of various components of the
Once it reaches the initial position, the cleaning solar system, such as the Locomotion unit and
unit is brought to a halt. Subsequently, the cleaning cleaning roller, various constraints are applied to the
unit is activated again, and this process is repeated parts. A fixed constraint is applied to the Solar Panel
multiple times to ensure thorough cleaning of the System to enable the simulation of the cleaning
solar panels. Once one array of solar panels is machine's operation on the panels.
cleaned, the machine can be utilized for cleaning
another array.

Fig. 12: Assembly

Fig. 13: Simulation Screenshots

 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1041

KMU Kinematics interface in Catia V5 is used to joint limits are assigned accordingly. Here are some
simulate the machine. By giving appropriate constraints screenshots from the simulation.
to parts proper and required Degree of Freedom
is established to the Locomotion Unit and Cleaning The Above figure shows five different screenshots
Roller. Prismatic joints are made Length Driven and of simulation taken while simulating the machine in
values are assigned according to the solar panel KMU Kinematics in Catia V5.
system. Revolute Joint is made Angle driven and

Fig. 14: Motor interfacing with Arduino

Automation and Working Principle subsequently issues commands to the sensors

The Arduino UNO Original R3 is a microcontroller and motors.
board developed by Arduino officials, featuring
the ATmega328P. This Arduino UNO is furnished Upon powering on the machine, electricity is directed
with 14 digital pins for input/output, six number of to the Arduino and other integral components. The
analog inputs, a quartz crystal of 16 MHz, with USB initiation of the motors prompts the machine to begin
connection, a power jack, an ICSP header, and a its movement and initiate the brushing operation on
reset button.11 the panel. Once the machine reaches at the end of
the panel, the IR sensor, strategically mounted on
Now, the machine is equipped with two IR sensors the machine, detects the edge of the panel. This
at both ends, which are connected to the Arduino. detection is facilitated by a special triggering object
Additionally, there are two DC servo motors positioned at the solar panel's end. Subsequently,
responsible for propelling the machine, and one DC the sensor registers the object and transmits a signal
motor is utilized for rotating the shaft on which the to the Arduino, prompting it to halt the motor. This
cleaning fiber is mounted. Through programming, marks the completion of the cleaning cycle for one
instructions are conveyed to the Arduino, which row of panels.
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1042

Design Calculation
To achieve the enhanced design and the desired
output, a thorough analysis of various parameters
was deemed necessary. Through the calculation of
these parameters, the appropriate dimensions for
the product can be determined.

Frame
Material: A6061 (Aluminium)
Density = 2.7 g/cm³
Tensile strength (σt) = 124–290 MPa (18.0–42.1 ksi)
Young's modulus (E) = 68 GPa (9,900 ksi)

Fig. 15: IR Sensor

Fig. 16: Main frame properties

Specification of Battery
Voltage = 12V
Current = 5A
Power: 12*5 = 60 W/hr.
Lead acid battery with 50% Efficiency with usable
power 42W per hour.

Motor Design
Model: Robodo REL- 32 Johnson Geared motor.
Fig. 17: Battery Motor Power = 12V
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1043

Motor speed = 200 rpm feature for large-scale solar parks if demand
No-load current = 800 mA arises. Equipped with sensors, the system enables
Load current = 9 Amp. seamless cleaning without human intervention and
Stall torque = 12 kg-cm can halt or pause cleaning in the event of enco-
Weight = 300 grams untering an obstacle.
Voltage = 6 to 24 (nominal voltage - 12v)
The machine's design was informed by insights from
Shaft Power Transmitted numerous industry experts specializing in cleaning
P = (2πNT) / 60 (N= rpm of motor) technologies. While developing a fully functional
T = Torque = 12 kg-cm = 12*0.098 = 1.176 N-m machine wasn't feasible within the scope of this
P = (2П*200*1.176)/ 60 endeavour due to factors like time constraints and
P = 36.86 W manufacturing costs, a scaled-down prototype was
meticulously designed, analyzed, and subjected to
testing.

Conclusion
The systematic automated solar panel cleaning
mechanism has been developed to counteract
the detrimental effects of soiling on photovoltaic
cells. Several issues encountered in manual panel
Fig. 18: Robodo REL_32 Johnson cleaning, including damage caused by brushes,
Geared Motor increased risk to personnel, and ineffective cleaning,
are addressed by this innovation. While there are
Solar Panel Calculations some atomized water cleaning machines in the
Consider peak panel power 330W for single panel, industry, they tend to consume excessive amounts
60 panels will produce = 330*60 = 19800 of water, making them unsuitable for arid regions.
W = 19.8 KW, this is the peak power output by 60 Both residential and commercial consumers are
panels. served by the mechanism, which offers automated
cleaning capabilities, including obstacle detection
Consider these panels receive 1 hour of sunlight through various sensors. The cleaning system
So, energy produced = 19.8*1 = 19.8 kWh utilizes high-quality microfiber cloth to effectively
This energy produced in kWh is familiar rather similar remove dust from panel surfaces without the
to the unit used in electric meter. need for water, making it suitable for arid areas.
Additionally, provisions have been included for a
Discussions water sprinkler to address stubborn stains like bird
Addressing the issue of dust settling, virtually all droppings that cannot be removed solely with the
overhead residential and commercial solar panels cloth. The overall impact of this mechanism will
face this challenge. The central objective was to result in an increased rated power output from the
initiate efforts that would decrease maintenance panels, which had previously been compromised
expenses and time for consumers. due to the mentioned issues. This not only reduces
maintenance and repair costs but also extends the
The process commenced with the design and analysis lifespan of the solar panels, encouraging consumers
of a prototype using CAD software. The resulting to choose solar energy as a viable renewable source.
machine features a sturdy yet simple frame, ensuring The system frame is robust, easy to manufacture,
easy transport and use across various panel and poses no threat to the functioning photovoltaic
locations. The cleaning cloth, crafted from microfiber, cells, making it the preferred choice for consumers.
offers convenience as it can be easily washed, Once the machine design is finalized, an analysis
rendering it suitable for domestic consumers. will be conducted, followed by manufacturing.
Furthermore, the system's advanced controller The analysis phase will encompass static stress
permits potential mobile operation, a beneficial analysis of the machine frame and the shaft housing
 PATIL et al., Curr. World Environ., Vol. 18(3) 1032-1045 (2023) 1044

the microfiber cloth. After the frame material is systems increases in both industrial and residential
selected, the cleaning cloth will be designed to fit settings, the cleaning system holds significant
the panel's length and be attached to the machine's promise for a bright future. Regarding the machine's
shaft. Manufacturing will involve sourcing high- current design, it is affixed to a long frame, making
quality local materials and employing precise transportation challenging. To address this issue,
machining processes to ensure a precise fit and consideration can be given to implementing a foldable
finish for the end product. The machine will then frame or one that can be disassembled with nuts
be equipped with sensors for seamless motion and screws, facilitating easy relocation. Additionally,
control and paired with multiple motors: one for the an upgrade of the current single-axis motion
shaft's movement housing the microfiber cloth and mechanism to a double-axis mechanism for
a couple of others for moving the entire frame over improved functionality can be explored. Furthermore,
the solar panel. by leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT), remote
operation of the system in distant locations can be
Future Scope enabled. This same technology can also serve as an
Numerous aspects and concepts can be adapted observation tool, providing real-time information on
in response to changing consumer needs in the the number of panels cleaned and the operational
future. The problems faced today may become status of all the mechanism's components.
less relevant due to technological advancements.
Therefore, to accommodate these evolving Acknowledgements
needs, the flexibility to make design changes We would like to express our sincere gratitude and
as required must be ensured. The objective is appreciation to PDEA’S College of Engineering,
to set a new standard in solar panel cleaning by Manjari, Pune (MS) India for providing us with the
harnessing cutting-edge technology to replace invaluable opportunity to engage in research work
traditional methods. With this approach, valuable during our time here. This experience has been
resources like water, time, and money are aimed transformative and has enriched our academic
to be conserved. In comparison to other methods, journey in countless ways. The opportunity to
which typically incur annual maintenance costs undertake research at this has not only enhanced
equivalent to approximately 5% of the total plant our academic growth but has also equipped us
cost, a reduction in these expenses by 2% has been with valuable skills, critical thinking abilities, and a
demonstrated by the robot-based cleaning system. profound passion for inquiry. Furthermore, I would
Solar farms can be efficiently cleaned on demand like to extend our gratitude to our students who
by the autonomous robot, eliminating the need for have shared their insights and ideas, creating a
manual labour and minimizing water consumption. collaborative and stimulating atmosphere that has
The system has been upgraded with additional propelled our research forward.
features aimed at augmenting its capabilities. These
enhancements include the incorporation of de-ionized Funding
water cleaning, a built-in camera for inspection This research work has not received any financial
purposes, and climate-based cleaning capabilities. support from any funding organization or agency,
These enhancements not only optimize cleaning neither partially nor in its entirety. The authors have
performance but also enable remote farm inspection, not received any sustenance from any organization
eliminating the need for physical site visits. for this work presented in this manuscript.
Furthermore, a forward-thinking approach allows
for potential weight reduction and the developmentof Conflicts of Interests
a more compact system through the utilization There are no conflicts of interest among any
of emerging technologies. As the demand for solar of the authors.

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Review of Yield Increase of Solar Panels