Solar - Final Reference

Solar Panel Cleaning System
1. INTRODUCTION
Most of the applications nowadays like heating water, agriculture and industrial
applications use the solar panels as an electrical power source instead of relying on the
generators or the ordinary sources for electricity. The most important part of these
systems is the solar panel where the solar energy is converted to heat for water heating or
converted to electricity for the others. There are many types of the solar panels. In the
countries those have dusty environment accumulation of dust on the solar panels leads to
reduction of the transmittance of the panel. Solar plants in some of the middle-east
countries like the solar desalination plant of Abu Dhabi suffer from the deposition of dust
on its solar plates. The effect of the accumulated dust will be reduced with the increasing
of tilt angle, since the tilt angle will affect the exposure time to the sunlight also. But the
best way to eliminate the effect of the accumulated dust on the solar panels is to clean the
panels. Cleaning the solar panels is normally by washing which is tedious and
cumbersome and also expensive in terms of the labor involved and time. In practice
cleaning of solar panels should be frequently done which makes the process more
expensive. Hence in this project an innovative method of automatic cleaning of solar
panel has been proposed. The method involves the Mechanical and Electric sections. The
Mechanical element includes DC motor controlled through a power unit which moves a
cleaning head on the panel upwards and downwards without or with the use of liquid
spraying structures.
1.1 Problem Statement
Periodical cleaning of solar panels is very important in order to produce and deliver the
maximum amount of energy to the grid. The effect of dirt and dust on the performance of
solar panels depends on various factors and always needs to be estimated or evaluated for
individual situations. One can generally assume a reduction of about 10%-25% if solar
power plants in Europe or the USA are considered. As soon as the installation is located
in dry, dusty regions such as the Gulf region, the effect can be increased and make a
difference in power of up to 40-50%. Consequently in order to produce and deliver the
maximum amount of energy to the grid periodic cleaning of panels is necessary. The dirt
Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

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& dust cause highly effect on the performance of solar panels depends on various factors
and always needs to be estimated or evaluated for individual situations.
1.2 Objective
To maximize solar energy output in utility-grade sites, without the expense and negative
ecological impact of manual and water-based cleaning. The water-free cleaning solution
optimizes panel performance in solar parks, while cutting operational costs. Using a
water-free microfiber and airflow cleaning system, the solution removes 99% of dust
daily, keeping panels at most efficiency even in the harshest desert conditions.
1.3 Scope
A cleaner of this kind can clean complete solar farms as and whenever required. Further
exciting features can be added into our cleaner like de-ionized water cleaning sprays,
cameras for inspection, climate based cleaning with sensors, tilt inclination, automatic
movement with remote controllers, etc. This cleaner in future will become more compact
and light with the advanced technology and would be further cheap. As these cleaners can
be used by a workers as well their services would be further required at homes when
homes will be lightened by solar panels.

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1.4 Methodology
Research Paper Reading & Study The General Aspect Of topic

Design Material Selection & Market
FrameSurvey
Making,
Of The
Welding
Material
& Joining Complete Assembly
Connecting Battery To The Setup
Selection of brush, shaft, bearing and DC motor

Mounting Of Brush
Testing The Model And Writing Down The Reading

Result And Conclusion
Figure no. 1.1: Methodology

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2. LITERATURE REVIEW
Literature review is an assignment of previous task done by some authors, scientists,

engineers and collection of information and/or data from research paper published in
journal to progress our task. It is a way through which we can find out new ideas,
concepts, techniques, policies, etc. There are lots of literatures published before on same
task. Only four papers are takes into consideration and our practices from which idea of
seminar is taken into mind.
S.B. Halbhavi, S.G. Kulkarni (2015) The solar PV modules are generally employed in
dusty environments which is the case in tropical countries like India. The dust gets
accumulated on the front surface of the module and blocks the incident light from the
sun. It reduces the power generation capacity of the module. The power output reduces as
much as by 50% if the module is not cleaned for a month. In order to regularly clean the
dust, a automatic cleaning system has been designed, which senses the dust on the solar
panel and also cleans the module automatically. This automated system is implemented
using 8051 microcontroller which controls the DC gear motor. This mechanism consists
of a sensor (LDR). While for cleaning the PV modules, a mechanism consists of a sliding
brushes has been developed. In terms of daily energy generation, the presented
automatic-cleaning scheme provides about 30% more energy output when compared to
the dust accumulated PV module. [1]
Harinder Singh, J.V. Seshagiri, K. Murali Krishna (2014) The Solar Power is the
most abundantly available energy available on the Earth and depletion of current
nonrenewable sources has led to the need for efficient harnessing of this source. The
Solar Panels used for the purpose are open to the environment and hence would
frequently get obscured by dust and other impurities. The current methods used are risky
and uneconomic hence the proposition of a “Solar Panel Cleaning Bot” is made. This
doesn’t require human intervention and is economic and is studied in this paper. [2]

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Kiran M R, Rekha G Padaki (2016) The performance analysis of the experimental

setup is purely based on the amount of power generated on the dusty panel and a cleaned
panel. The output power may reduce considerably by the large amount of dust
accumulation on the panel. Dry cleaning can eliminate the dust particles on the surface
but the effective cleaning is observed in wet cleaning. A bulk of the dirt dropped on the
panel can be removed by cleaning the solar panel with water. No external power supply is
required for the cleaning technology because solar panel itself can generate the sufficient
power required for the microcontroller operation, which can be stored in a battery. The
assembly is found to be lightweight. In comparison of costs in manual operation cleaning
and automatic cleaning, the cost for automatic cleaning is demonstrated to be more
economic and significantly less burden particularly in the system having large number of
solar panels. The microcontroller is used because of its applications by pic programming
and also because of lower installation cost. The power output is varying for the different
weather conditions. A regular periodic cleaning ensures the variation of power measured
in both before and after cleaning conditions by showing the significant performance of
the cleaning technology. [3]
Athira Sivan, Athira Sivan (2017) An Some of the best places to collect solar energy
are also some of the dustiest on Earth. Dust from pollution and traffic that fall on the
solar panel surface prevents the sunlight from reaching the solar cells. The efficiency of
solar panel gets affected in the presence of dust particles. While many factors affect how
much electricity your solar panels will produce, dusty solar panels can be one of the
biggest, and easiest to fix. Experts have agreed that dusty solar panels do not produce as
much power as clean panels. The power output of the panel degrades up to 50% due to
the dust accumulation. A solar panel cleaning system is proposed in order to make a solar
panel operate at the best power generation state, while the solar panel is used in dusty
environment. This paper consists of a LDR sensor, wiper unit and sprayer. The LDR
sensor is used to detect whether it is a day or night. [4]

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Monto Mani, Rohit Pillai (2010) The peaking of most oil reserves and impending
climate change are critically driving the adoption of solar photovoltaic's (PV) as a
sustainable renewable and eco-friendly alternative. Ongoing material research has yet to
find a breakthrough in significantly raising the conversion efficiency of commercial PV
modules. The installation of PV systems for optimum yield is primarily dictated by its
geographic location (latitude and available solar insulation) and installation design (tilt,
orientation and altitude) to maximize solar exposure. However, once these parameters
have been addressed appropriately, there are other depending factors that arise in
determining the system performance (efficiency and output). Dust is the lesser
acknowledged factor that significantly influences the performance of the PV installations.
This paper provides an appraisal on the current status of research in studying the impact
of dust on PV system performance and identifies challenges to further pertinent research.
A framework to understand the various factors that govern the settling/assimilation of
dust and likely mitigation measures have been discussed in this paper. [5]
Akhil Mishra, Ajay Sarathe (2017) In this paper they review the various concepts to
handle energy demand around the world. The use of unconventional sources is increasing
rapidly for many applications. Some unconventional sources of energy are solar, wind
and geothermal which are inexhaustible. Solar energy is abundant in nature and is being
used for many applications like street lighting , house hold appliances(cooking), water
heating, agricultural and industrial purposes. One of the ways to harness solar energy is
done by using solar photovoltaic panels. The limitation in proper use of solar energy is its
efficiency. The factors which affect efficiency are like dust, humidity, temperature etc.
Electrical parameters of solar panel are sensitive to accumulated dust density and will
affect the transmittance of the solar panel thereby reduce its overall efficiency. To deal
this problem, it is necessary to clean the solar panels regularly. One of the method is to
enhance the efficiency of solar panel is by removing the dust accumulated on solar panel.
Cleaning of solar panels is a difficult task. The conventional way to clean the solar panels
is washing them manually but it is not reliable and economical. In this regard review of
various techniques is done which are currently being used to increase the efficiency or
performance of these solar panels. [6]

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Dabhi Chirag, Gandhi Mayank (2017) The solar panel is work by allowing the light
into solar cells. The more light that impact on a panel, the result more power it will be
generate. Due to the upwards angle of solar panels, they are more liable to a build up the
dust and bird dropping. The dirt which is not clean with just rain. This is reducing the
same amount of light impact on the panel and reducing panel output. The solar panel
manufacturers and installers are claimed about the projected energy figures that based on
the optimum performance of clean solar panel. Due to build up the dirt on solar panel,
that can adversely affect the panel’s ability to meet that projected figures. So it is
necessary and important to clean the solar panel in order to protect and get more power
output. So we are design and develop the automatic machine which is clean the solar
panel and improve the panel efficiency. [7]
Rupali Nazar (2015) In this paper we have discuss various methods of efficiency
improvement of solar panel. They can improve efficiency of solar panel by using solar
tracker with panel which continuously tracks sunlight throughout the day to get
maximum solar energy. Second method to improve the efficiency is dust cleaning. Dust
is barrier between sunlight and solar panel. Third method is cooling technique. As panel
temperature increases output voltage of solar panel decreases so cooling of panel is
necessary for improvement of efficiency. Other method is anti-reflecting coating for solar
panel, which improve efficiency of panel. Aim of this paper is to increase the efficiency
and power output of the solar panel. [8]
R. Divya, J.Gayadhiri dhevi (2018) Solar energy is the best form of energy to fulfill the
energy needs of India and bridge the energy demand-supply gap. Solar energy is the
endless source in which PV is the third renewable source in terms of global capacity. Due
to transition of the Sun from east to west, the fixed solar panel may be able to generate
optimum energy. The solar panel coupled to the stepper motor to track that maximum sun
light. This is better compared to fixed panel method. The solar PV modules are generally
employed in dusty environments. It reduces the power generation capacity of the module.
In order to regularly clean the dust, an automatic cleaning system has been designed,
which senses the dust on the solar panel and also cleans the module automatically. This

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automated system is implemented by using Arduino UNO which controls all the DC
motor. This project is to overcome the disadvantage of existing system. The solar panel
tracks the sun as well as cleaning the dusty part by itself. Reduces the labours,
maintenance, cost, power consumption, does not release CO2 and increases the
efficiency. Without cleaning of solar panel 50% power will be waste for per month. It is
applicable for large scale application. [9]
Shaharin A. Sulaiman, Haizatul H. Hussain (2011) Accumulation of dust from the

outdoor environment on the panels of solar photovoltaic (PV) system is natural. There
were studies that showed that the accumulated dust can reduce the performance of solar
panels, but the results were not clearly quantified. The objective of this research was to
study the effects of dust accumulation on the performance of solar PV panels.
Experiments were conducted using dust particles on solar panels with a constant-power
light source, to determine the resulting electrical power generated and efficiency. It was
found from the study that the accumulated dust on the surface of photovoltaic solar panel
can reduce the system’s efficiency by up to 50%. [10]
Swanand S. Wable1, Somashekhar Ganiger (2017) The Solar Panels Farms are
generally situated in dirt and dust areas which are mostly in case of tropical countries.
The performance of solar panels depends on various factors, the power generated by farm
can decreased if there is dust and dirt on panels and this is the main factor for reduction.
One can generally assume a reduction of about 40% - 50%, if the panels are not clean
properly for 1-2 months. So to overcome this problem and to increase the efficiency of
power production cleaning of module on regular basis is necessary. To clean the dust, an
automatic cleaning robot is developed, which will clean the panels on regular interval of
time. The mechanism is based on control circuit, DC motor; microfiber (bristles) to clean
the panels. The paper provides you with the idea how the robot will work and its effect on
the energy production by solar farms. It will also to help to understand the problem arise
due to not cleaning of solar cells. [11]
Akhil Mishra, Dr. A.K. Sarathe (2018) The factors such as panel orientation or panel
surface material can contribute to the deposition of the impurities. Here in this work it

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find out the effect of cleaning of solar panel on the efficiency of the solar plate. It
calculates the efficiency of solar panel before cleaning and after cleaning, it also
calculates the effect of different parameters responsible during the cleaning of solar
panel. The parameters responsible for cleaning are feed speed, roller speed, feed depth,
no. of pass of roller. Through experiment it is found that the value of efficiency for all
isolation is maximum in case of solar panel without dust. [12]
Kutaiba Sabah, Sabah Nimma Faraj (2013) In this paper we have studied that the dust
accumulation for the solar panels has been investigated for a long period of time which is
approximately one year. The experiments have been done in different countries which
have climate conditions of the dusty weather. Those countries are Iraq, Egypt and UAE.
The solar panels were never cleaned, firstly for one month, secondly for two months and
so on. The results were there was a decreasing in the transmittance of the solar panels,
which is emphasize the effect of accumulated dust, even though the changing in the tilt
angel which is in conjunction with the dust deposition on the panels. A well designed
auto cleaning system to clean the solar panels will be added to the panels to keep the
transmittance of the solar planes fixed approximately and to reduce the cost- of periodic
cleaning. [13]
Gaofa He, Chuande Zhou, Zelun Li (2011) The self-cleaning technology for solar cell
array can promote efficiency of electricity produced and protect the solar cell. The
methods of dust-removal, such as natural means, mechanical means, self-cleaning nano-
film, and electrostatic means are presented in this paper. It is intended to help readers to
gain a more comprehensive view on self-cleaning method for solar panels or other optical
devices. [14]

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3. CURRENT TECHNIQUES USED
3.1 Manual Washing
Figure no. 3.1: Manual cleaning of solar panel [4]
In manual washing they only use water and a soft bristled brush to clean panels. Through
local water tanks, the crew filters the water to make sure it’s at 0 TDS (total dissolved
solids). Glass is already porous by nature. It has little divots you can’t see with your
naked eye. If you use any sort of soap for that matter, it’s going to end up filling those
pores and you’ll get dirt, soap particles, anything stuck. Your glass is eventually going to
haze over time. Brushes get in between the frames a bit therefore a lot of companies don’t
use brushes. They use squeegees that collect the dirt into that bottom rail. If it happens to
flip to the other side on a single-axis tracker and it rains, then all that mud and grime is
just going to be coming down the top of that panel.
3.2 Hydraulic Arm Cleaning
This method is semi-automatic in which cleaning mechanism is attached to the hydraulic

arm. This hydraulic arm is operated by human operator.

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Figure no. 3.2: Hydraulic arm cleaning method [3]

3.3 Spray Cleaning
There are many companies which manufacture automatic cleaning systems for solar
panel. There are no moving parts or robotic elements; they use a sprinkler, with nozzles
positioned every few panels. The system runs a wash (with soap) cycle and a rinse cycle,
with adjustable frequency drought regions we can’t use water for cleaning. Therefore we
should have systems which do not use water or soap for cleaning the solar panel.
Figure no. 3.3: Spray method [7]

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3.4 Ecopia E4 Robot

This is a water-free, robotic solution which cleans panels every day with a soft microfiber
and gentle air flow. Floating over a frame that travels alongside each row of panels, the
robot removes 99% of dust during its daily cleanings. Each robot has its own solar panel,
so no power is taken from the solar row for its cleaning. It is fully programmable to wash
(with soap and water) or rinse (water only) your panels as frequently as you like.
Figure no.3.4: Ecopia E4 Robot
3.5 Dry Cleaning Method

Our project highlights water free technique, which cleans the solar panels with roller
brush mounted on shaft. Nylon brush is used in dry cleaning method which improves the
life of solar panel to a larger extent. This method optimizes solar panel performance
while cutting operational costs such as by avoiding water sprays, soaps, wipers blades,
labor costs, etc. This method removes about 99% of dust from the solar panels hereby
increasing efficiency. Generally soap water damages photovoltaic cells which lead to
reduction in life of solar cells by avoiding transmission of sun rays emitted to glass panel.
Nylon brush mounted on shaft rotates continuously by throwing dust from the top of
glass panel to the surroundings. This assembly is operated by four wheels which run on
the wheel tracks of frame.

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4. SELECTION OF MATERIAL
The proper selection of material for the different part of a machine is the main objective
in the fabrication of machine. For a design engineer it is must that he be familiar with the
effect, which the manufacturing process and heat treatment have on the properties of
materials. The Choice of material for engineering purposes depends upon the following
factors:
1. Availability of the materials.

2. Suitability of materials for the working condition in service.
3. The cost of materials.
4. Physical and chemical properties of material.
5. Mechanical properties of material.
The mechanical properties of the metals are those, which are associated with the ability
of the material to resist mechanical forces and load. We shall now discuss these
properties as follows:
1. Strength: It is the ability of a material to resist the externally applied Forces.

2. Stress: Without breaking or yielding. The internal resistance offered by a part to
an externally applied force is called stress.
3. Stiffness: It is the ability of material to resist deformation under stresses.
4. Elasticity: It is the property of a material to regain its original shape after
deformation when the external forces are removed. This property is desirable for
material used in tools and machines. It may be noted that steel is more elastic than
rubber.
5. Plasticity: It is the property of a material, which retain the deformation produced
under load permanently. This property of material is necessary for forging, in
stamping images on coins and in ornamental work.
6. Ductility: It is the property of a material enabling it to be drawn into wire with
the application of a tensile force. A ductile material must be both strong and
plastic. The ductility is usually measured by the terms, percentage elongation and

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percent reduction in area. The ductile materials commonly used in engineering

practice are mild steel, copper, aluminum, nickel, zinc, tin and lead.
7. Brittleness: It is the property of material opposite to ductile. It is property of
breaking of a material with little permanent distortion. Brittle materials when
subjected to tensile loads snap off without giving any sensible elongation. Cast
iron is a brittle material.
8. Malleability: It is a special case of ductility, which permits material to be rolled
or hammered into thin sheets, a malleable material should be plastic but it is not
essential to be so strong. The malleable materials commonly used in engineering
practice are lead, soft steel, wrought iron, copper and aluminum.
9. Toughness: It is the property of a material to resist the fracture due to high
impact loads like hammer blows. The toughness of the material decreases when it
is heated. It is measured by the amount of absorbed after being stressed up to the
point of fracture. This property is desirable in parts subjected to shock an impact
loads.
10. Resilience: It is the property of a material to absorb energy and to resist rock and
impact loads. It is measured by amount of energy absorbed per unit volume within
elastic limit. This property is essential for spring material.
11. Creep: When a part is subjected to a constant stress at high temperature for long
period of time, it will undergo a slow and permanent deformation called creep.
This property is considered in designing internal combustion engines, boilers and
turbines.
12. Hardness: It is a very important property of the metals and has wide variety of
meanings. It embraces many different properties such as resistance to wear
scratching, deformation and machinability etc. It also means the ability of the
metal to cut another metal. The hardness is usually expressed in numbers, which
are dependent on the method of making the test.
The selection of the materials depends upon the various types of stresses that are set up
during operation. The material selected should with stand it. Another criteria for selection
of metal depend upon the type of load because a machine part resist load more easily than

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a live load and live load more easily than a shock load. Selection of the material depends
upon factor of safety, which in turn depends upon the following factors.
1. Reliabilities of properties
2. Reliability of applied load
3. The certainty as to exact mode of failure
4. The extent of simplifying assumptions
5. The extent of localized
6. The extent of initial stresses set up during manufacturing
4.1 Material Used for Frame and Shaft: Mild Steel
1. M.S. has carbon content from 0.15% to 0.30%. They are easily weld able thus can
be hardened only.
2. They are similar to wrought iron in properties. Both ultimate tensile and
compressive strength of these steel increases with increasing carbon content. They
can be easily gas welded or electric or arc welded.
3. Mild steel is readily available in market. It is economical to use and it is available
in standard sizes.
4. It has moderate factor of safety, because factor of safety results in unnecessary
wastage of material and heavy selection. Low factor of safety results in
unnecessary risk of failure.
5. It has good mechanical properties. i.e. it is easily machinable.
6. It has high tensile strength and Low co-efficient of thermal expansion

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5. DESIGN OF PARTS
When designing our attachment, the following considerations were taken into
account:
1. The device should be suitable for local manufacturing capabilities.
2. The attachment should employ low-cost materials and manufacturing methods.
3. It should be accessible and affordable by low-income groups, and should fulfill
their basic need for mechanical power.
4. It should be simple to manufacture, operate, maintain and repair.
5. Excessive weight should be avoided, as durability is a prime consideration.
6. Types of load and stresses caused by the load.
7. Frictional resistances and ease of lubrication.
8. Convince and economical in operation.
9. Use of standard parts.
10. Facilities available for manufacturing.
11. Cost of making the machine.
12. Number of machine or products manufactured.
The general steps to be followed in designing the machine are as followed:

1. Preparation of a statement of the problem indicating the purpose of the machine.
2. Selection of groups of mechanism for the desire motion.
3. Calculation of the force and energy on each machine member.
4. Selection of material.
5. Determining the size of component drawing and sending for manufacture.
6. Preparation of component drawing and sending for manufacture.
7. Manufacturing and assembling the machine.
8. Testing of the machine and for functioning.

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5.1 Design of Shaft
Figure no. 5.1: Shaft
We selected a solid circular shaft,
Length of shaft = 300 mm

Material-Mild Steel (M.S.),
Syt = Yield Strength = 170 MPa
Sut = Ultimate tensile strength = 290 MPa

...… (Ref. Table 2.5 in Machine Design by R.S. Khurmi & J.K. Gupta)
Screw driver motor Torque = 2900 N-mm
Screw driver motor Speed = 130 rpm
Figure no. 5.2: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Shaft

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Weight brush on shaft = 1 kg (from CATIA, density of PVC material brush 1467 kg-m)
Figure no. 5.3: CATIAV5 R18 Model of Brush Indicating Density
Other weight considered = 1 kg

Total weight = W = 2 kg = 2 × 9.81=19.6 N
Kb = combined shock & fatigue factor for bending = 1.5
Kt = combined shock & fatigue factor for torsion = 1.25
Applying A.S.M.E. Code,

𝜏per = Permissible stress
𝜏per = 0.3 × Syt = 0.3 × 170 = 51 MPa
𝜏per = 0.18 × Sut = 0.18 × 290 = 52.2 MPa

Selecting 𝜏per whichever is minimum
𝜏per = 51 MPa (selected)

Considering effect of key-way reduces this value by 25%,
𝜏per = 0.75 × 51 = 38.25 MPa
From CATIA design assume the shaft length 300 mm
Maximum bending moment of simply supported shaft carrying central load,

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Figure no. 5.4: Vertical loading diagram of shaft
𝑊𝐿
M=
C 4
MC = 19.6 4 300
MC = 1470 N-mm
We know that, the equivalent twisting moment,
Te = (Kb × 𝑀c)2 + (Kt × T)2
Putting values,
Te = (1.5 × 1470)2 + (1.25 × 2900)2
Te = 3625 N-mm
We also know that, equivalent twisting moment,
T =16𝜋 × × d3
e
τper
…….. (Ref. Page no.226 from Machine Design by V.B. Bhandari)

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Putting values,
3625 = π × 38.25 × d3
16
d = 7.85 mm
Factor of safety is selected = 2.5
(Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Factor_of_safety In engineering, a factor of
safety (FOS), also known as (and used interchangeably with) safety .For ductile materials
(e.g. most metals, mild steel), it is often required that the factor of
safety be checked against both yield and ultimate strengths.)
d = 2.5 × 7.85 = 19.6 mm
The standard size of shaft available nearby to 19 is 20 mm
Therefore, shaft diameter (d) we considered as 20mm.
5.2 Design of Frame
Frame size and structure we have designed in CATIA V5 software, according to size of
solar panel. We are taking 3 plates of solar to make a rail and to clean.
Figure no. 5.5: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Frame
Length of Frame = 1060 mm
Width of Frame = 250 mm

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Figure no. 5.6: Side View of Frame
Length of legs (high) = 370 mm
Length of legs (low) = 300 mm
Width of legs = 20 mm
The angle made by the frame,
Opposite side
tanθ = ( Adjacent side )
70
tanθ = ( )
250
70
θ = tan−1( )
250
θ = 15°
Track length for wheel = 870 mm
Track width for wheel = 20 mm

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5.3 Design of Chassis of Robot
Chassis of robot in CATIA we have made this design according to shaft length of motor
& wheel thickness 20 mm & also the brush diameter considered.
Figure no. 5.7: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Chassis
Assembly Frame = 400 mm
Width of Frame = 180 mm

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6. SELECTION OF CONSTITUENTS
6.1 Selection of Solar Plate
It’s very important when selecting the best size of solar panels to use for your solar power
system installation to bear in mind a few crucial factors aside from the price tag The cost of a
solar panel is determined in part by its capacity (Watts), the physical size, the brand, quality
of materials, the durability / longevity (warranty period) and any certifications the solar panel
might have. There are 3 types of solar panels and are explained below
6.1.1 Mono Crystalline solar plate
Mono crystalline sun panels are made from a huge crystal of silicon. These varieties of
solar panels are the maximum green as in absorbing sunlight and converting it into
strength; but they may be the maximum high priced. They do particularly higher in
decrease light conditions then the alternative types of solar panels.
Figure no. 6.1: Mono Crystalline solar plate [3]
6.1.2 Amorphous Solar Plate
Amorphous solar panel includes a thin film crafted from molten silicon this is spread
directly throughout massive plates of stainless steel or similar cloth. Those kinds of solar
panels have lower performance than the alternative varieties of sun panels, and the
cheapest to produce. One advantage of amorphous sun panels over the alternative two is

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that they may be shadow blanketed. That means that the sun panel keeps to rate at the
same time as part of the sun panel cells is in a shadow.
Figure no. 6.2: Amorphous solar plate [3]
6.1.3 Poly Crystalline solar plate
We Selected Polycrystalline Solar Plate. These are the maximum common types of solar
panels available on the market today. They appearance plenty like shattered glass.
They’re slightly much less highly-priced to supply. Instead of one massive crystal this
kind of solar panel includes more than one quantities of smaller silicon crystal.
Figure no. 6.3: Polycrystalline Solar Panel [3]

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Solar Panel Efficiency Details:
1. Mono crystalline - 18%

2. Amorphous - 10%
3. Poly crystalline - 15%
We have selected Three Solar Panel,
Table no. 6.1: Specification of Solar Panel
Solar Panels Dimensions (L×B) Voltage Watt

1 185 mm × 180 mm 6 V 3W
2 325 mm × 180 mm 12 V 5W
3 325 mm × 180 mm 12 V 5W
Figure no. 6.4: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Solar Panel

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6.2 Selection of Brush
Figure no. 6.5: Nylon Brush
These are nylon bristles fitted on the roller to clean the solar panels. The roller will be
fitted between the two frames so that it can roll on the panels easily. It will roll
throughout the panels, thus cleaning the Panels. The bristles fitted on the roller are
microfibers type of number N-30 to 50 micron Selection of brush has done according to
the width of solar panel. From market survey we come to know supplier have their own
Catalog of standard brush which used to clean solar panels. As Required Available with
supplier, so according to our shaft outer diameter we select the inner diameter of brush.
Length of Brush = 205 mm
Figure no. 6.6: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Brush

Mechanical]
6.3 Driving DC Motor 30 Rpm
We are designing an assembly for cleaning our robot needs a motion that is reverse and
forward to move the robot in both direction we need high torque and low rpm, if we
select high rpm motor it will move the robot speedily & the brush and cleaning process
will not work smoothly. For smooth moving we need low rpm and high torque required.
Figure no. 6.7: Driving DC Motor
As per our CATIA model the weight of chassis and the battery for chassis by considering
7860 material density of mild steel = 2 kg to transmit the 2 kg weight with low rpm from
manufacturing Catalog we have selected 30 rpm motor.
Specifications and Features: -
1. RPM: 30
2. Operating Voltage: 12V DC (Motor run smoothly from 4V to 12V)
3. Shaft diameter: 6mm with internal hole
4. Torque: 2 kg-cm

Mechanical]
Figure no. 6.8: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Driving DC Motor
6.4 Selection of Wheel
1. According to motor shaft diameter = 6 mm

2. Shaft Diameter = 6 mm
3. Wheel Diameter = 65 mm
4. Wheel Width = 20 mm
Figure no. 6.9: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Wheel

Mechanical]
6.5 Selection of Battery 12 V
1. Output Power Wattage: 86.4 W

2. Input Voltage: 12 V Output Voltage: 14.4 V
3. Input Frequency: 12 V Output Frequency: 14.1-14.4 V
4. W × H × D: 1500 mm × 90 mm × 60 mm
Here we have selected this battery because our one main screw driver motor is of 9 volt
& its power = 39.44 Watt
& the other 4 x DC Motor of 9 volt current per 0.3 Watt
= 0.3 Watt × 4 motor = 1.2 Watt
So total power consumption is = 39.44 Watt + 1.2 Watt = 40.64 Watt.
Here from this 40 Watt and online availability of battery we have selected 12 volt battery
its power Wattage is 86.4 Watt.
Figure no. 6.10: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Battery

Mechanical]
Figure no. 6.11: Battery 12 V
6.6 Selection of Nut Bolt Washer M6
Figure no. 6.12: Nut Bolt Washer M6
M6 bolt selected if we see the pedestal bearing P204 drawing the bearing holding holes
for this bearing is given n = 13 mm
So for the better adjustment in vertical and horizontal we have selected the bolt size M6
i.e. 6 mm dia. bolt.

Mechanical]
6.7 Selection of High Torque Motor
Figure no. 6.13: Cordless Screwdriver
Key Features-
1. Forward/Reverse Switch for Easy Screw driving and Screw Removal.

2. Spindle lock for manual use and narrow nose piece.
3. Primary material: Plastic
Table no. 6.2: Specification of Cordless Screwdriver
Brand Black & Decker
Maximum Torque 2900 N-mm
Chuck Size 1/4 Inch Hex socket
Voltage 9V
No Load Speed 130 rpm
Dimensions 310 ×152 ×60 mm
Weight 0.24 Kg

Mechanical]
The reason behind selecting the screw driver as motor it contain inbuilt gears and it
converts the motor rpm to high rpm i.e. 2.90 Nm
To rotate the brush and shaft with its weight we need high torque motor that’s why we
selected this screw driver. The purpose of a motor, regardless of the application, is to
change electrical power to mechanical power in order to provide rotational movement.
Every application will have its own distinct parameters for input and output power.
According to our project design we need variable speed motor, so as per manufactures
catalogues, we have studied the rpm factor and as per our costing we have selected 1
motor.
Speed = N = 130 rpm
Torque = 2900 N-mm
2πN
Angular Velocity = ω =
60
2×π×130
= 60
= 13.60 rad/sec
Power = P = T × ω = 2.9 × 13.6
Power = 39.44 Watt

Mechanical]
6.8 Selection of Bearing

For 20mm shaft OD diameter we take standard bearing Number P204 from
manufacturers catalogs.
Id of this bearing 20 mm hence for 20 mm shaft we need pedestal bearing P204 this is the
code for bearing.
Figure no. 6.14: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Bearing
Figure no. 6.15: Specification of Bearing

Mechanical]
7. CONSTRUCTION & WORKING
The main component of our assembly is as shown in figure. There are three solar panels
of which two are 5W each and one is of 3W connected in parallel with each other. The
power generated by these solar panels is stored in a 12V DC battery. We have to clean
the solar panel by dry cleaning process, for that we are using nylon brush of soft bristles
so that it should not affect the transparency of solar panel in long term use. Now this
brush will rotate at high speed for throwing of the dust from the panel. The rotating
motion for brush is given to it by motor mounted beside it; the motor is of high rpm and
high torque. This whole assembly is mounted on the frame; the pedestal bearing made of
cast iron, is used for mounting rollers. The frame with this assembly is mounted on four
rollers; all four rollers are having individual motors of low rpm and high torque for
travelling smoothly on solar panel frame. Our circuit is having only three press buttons
one will start the machine and other two will increase and decrease the time.
Figure no. 7.1: CATIA V5 R18 Design of Solar Panel Cleaning System

Mechanical]
8. TESTING OF MODEL
8.1 Readings
1. Day 1:
Table no. 8.1: Voltage Readings 1
Voltage Before Voltage After

Time Voltage
Cleaning (V) Cleaning (V)
9:00 AM 12 V 10.12 10.57
12:00 PM 12V 11.03 11.48
3:00 PM 12 V 9.86 10.42
6:00 PM 12 V 6.41 8.38
9:00 PM 12 V 2.17 2.84
2. Day 2:

Time Voltage
9:00 AM 12 V 9.62 10.11
12:00 PM 12V 10.39 11.03
3:00 PM 12 V 8.12 9.74
6:00 PM 12 V 4.18 6.15
9:00 PM 12 V 3.86 5.49

Mechanical]
3. Day 3:

Time Voltage
9:00 AM 12 V 9.14 10.17
12:00 PM 12V 10.78 11.77
3:00 PM 12 V 7.79 8.28
6:00 PM 12 V 4.25 6.31
9:00 PM 12 V 2.18 3.97
8.2 Graphs
Voltage Vs Time Graph

14
12
10
8
Volta
6
4
2
0
9:00 AM 12:00 PM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM 9:00 PM

Time
Voltage Before Cleaning Voltage After Cleaning
Figure no. 8.1: Graph of Readings 1

Mechanical]

12
10
8
6
Volta
4
2
0
9:00 AM 12:00 PM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM 9:00 PM

Time

14
12
10
8
Volta
6
4
2
0
9:00 AM 12:00 PM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM 9:00 PM

Time
Voltage Before cleaning Voltage After Cleaning

Mechanical]
8.3 Results
Table no. 8.4: Comparison of Voltages between Before and After Cleaning

(V) (V)
Day 1 7.91 8.73
Day2 7.23 8.50
Day2 6.82 8.10
All Readings have been measured by multimeter in volt of 12 V solar panel. The graph is
drawn by considering the readings taken from Day 1, Day 2 & Day 3 resp. The time is
taken in x-axis and voltage generated by the solar panel is taken in y-axis. The blue curve
shown in all graphs is the voltage generated by the dusty panel i.e. before cleaning which
is taken in volt, whereas the red curve in the graph is voltage generated by the panel after
cleaning of the dust accumulated on the panel. The time interval is taken in hours from
morning 9 am to night 9 pm. An assessment of result for the experimental module is
evaluated by the study of above graphs.
The table 8.4 shows the comparison of voltages between before & after cleaning, from
this table we can easily find that the voltage after cleaning is higher than before cleaning.
Voltage & efficiency may varies according to sun rays intensity & quantity of dust
accumulated on solar panel. Hence, we concluded that there are increases of 20% - 40%
efficiency of solar panel after cleaning.

Mechanical]
9. COST ESTIMATION
Cost estimation may be defined as the process of forecasting the expenses that must be
estimated to manufacture a product. These expenses take into a consideration all
expenditure involved in a design and manufacturing with all related services facilities
such as grinding, turning, welding, assembly as well as a portion of the general
administrative and selling costs.
9.1 Purpose of Cost Estimation:
1. To determine the selling price of a product for a quotation or contract so as to

ensure a reasonable profit to the company.
2. Check the quotation supplied by vendors.
3. Determine the most economical process or material to manufacture the product.
4. To determine standards of production performance that may be used to control the
cost.
Table No. 9.1: Operational Costs
Sr. No. Operation Hours Amount
1 Turning 6 1500/-
2 Cutting 4 300/-
4 Welding 8 1200/-
5 Grinding 2 250/-
6 Assembly 3 200/-
Total 3450/-

Mechanical]
Table no. 9.2: Raw Material & Standard Material
Sr. No. Part Name Mat. Amount
1 Frame MS 1500/-
2 Solar Panel STD 4000/-
3 Shaft MS 500/-
4 Driving Dc Motor STD 800/-
5 Cleaning Dc Motor STD 900/-
6 Pedestal Bearing CI 800/-
7 Nut Bolt Washer M 16 MS 40/-
8 Cleaning Brush STD 2000/-
9 Wheels Plastic 160/-
9 Exide Battery 12v Dry 500/-
10 Crocodile Clip STD 150/-
11 Copper Wire STD 50/-
Total 11400/-
Total cost of project = Raw Material & Standard Parts Cost + Operational Cost
Total cost of project = 11400 + 3450
Total cost of project = 14850/-

Mechanical]
10. ADVANTAGES AND APPLICATIONS
10.1 Advantages
1. Water free technique
2. Brush length can be adjusted according to panel width.
3. Robot itself is solar powered.
4. It doesn’t require human intervention.
5. Needs only single robot for single row and row length does not matter.
6. This method is cost effective.
10.2 Applications
1. Solar Park
2. Solar Water Plants
3. Solar House

Mechanical]
11. CONCLUSION
This project highlights the effect of dust, dirt, pollen, sea salt, and bird droppings on the
PV systems efficiency. However, the development of the cleaning system can solve those
problems. The current mechanism utilizes a brush cleaning system that cleans on set
cleaning cycles. It uses a rolling brush to clean as it horizontally translates across an array
of panels. The device is mounted on set of battery powered motorized wheels. At the end
of the panel there would be a docking station for it to recharge. This machine will
increase efficiency, productivity and ultimately profit of the industry increases with less
time consumption and efforts. This mechanism will have much less cost compared to
robots which are used these days for cleaning solar panels.
11.1 Future Scope
1. Sensors can be used in the system for detecting sticky dust which is not cleaned
by current mechanisms.
2. Some amount of dust which is cleaned by brush remains in air and settles down
on glass of solar panel as the brush completes its cleaning round. A vacuum
creating device can be installed for avoiding the settling of dust on panel.
3. Sensors can be used to automatically clean the solar panels as per amount of dust
collected on solar panels.
4. Timer circuit can be used for limiting the amount of cleaning in a day or week.
5. Cleaners can be made remote operated.

Mechanical]
REFERENCES
1. S.B. Halbhavi, S.G. Kulkarni “Microcontroller Based Automatic Cleaning of

Solar Panel” International Journal of Latest Trends in Engineering and
Technology (IJLTET) Vol. 5, Issue 4 July 2015.
2. Harinder Singh, J.V. Seshagiri, K. Murali Krishna “Solar Panel Cleaning Bot”
Indian Streams Research Journal Volume 4, Issue 4 May-2014, ISSN 2230 -7850.
3. Kiran M R, Rekha G Padaki “Self-Cleaning Technology for solar PV Panel”
September 2016 IJSDR Volume 1, Issue 9 ISSN: 2455-2631.
4. Athira Sivan, Athira Sivan, “Automatic Self Cleaning Solar Panel” International
Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET) Volume: 04, Issue: 05
May -2017.
5. Monto Mani, Rohit Pillai “Impact of dust on solar photovoltaic (PV)
performance: Research status, challenges and recommendations” Volume 14,
Issue 9, December 2010, Pages 3124-3131.
6. Akhil Mishra, Ajay Sarathe “Study of Solar Panel Cleaning System To Enhance
The Performance Of Solar System” National Institute of Technical Teachers
Training and Research, Bhopal September 2017, Volume 4, Issue 09, JETIR
(ISSN-2349-5162.)
7. Dabhi Chirag, Gandhi Mayank, “Design And Development of Solar Panel
Cleaning Machine” International Journal of Advance Engineering and Research
Development Scientific Journal of Impact Factor, April-2017, e-ISSN: 2348-4470
p-ISSN: 2348-6406.
8. Rupali Nazar “Improvement of Efficiency Of Solar Panel Using Different
Methods.” International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, IJEEE,
Volume 07, Issue 01, Jan- June 2015, ISSN- 2321-2055.
9. R.Divya, J.Gayadhiri dhevi,S.Sandhiya, “Automatic Cleaning Of Solar Panel
With Maximum Power Tracking By Using Arduino” International Journal of
Research Publications Volume-2, Issue-1, April 2018.

Mechanical]
10. Shaharin A. Sulaiman, Haizatul H. Hussain “Effects of Dust on the Performance

of PV Panels” International Journal of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering
Vol: 5, No: 10, 2011.
11. Swanand S. Wable, Somashekhar Ganiger “Design & Manufacturing of Solar
Panels Cleaning System” International Journal for Research in Applied Science &
Engineering Technology ISSN: 2321-9653; IC Value: 45.98; SJ Impact Factor:
6.887, Volume 5, Issue VII, July 2017.
12. Akhil Mishra1, Dr. A.K. Sarathe “Performance Analysis of Solar Pv Panels Using
The Developed Automated Cleaning System” American Journal of Engineering
Research (AJER) e-ISSN: 2320-0847, p-ISSN: 2320-0936 Volume-7, Issue-6, pp-
123-130, 2018.
13. Kutaiba Sabah, Sabah Nimma Faraj “Self-Cleaning Solar Panels to Avoid the
Effects of Accumulated Dust on Solar Panels Transmittance” International
Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), India Online Volume 2, Issue 9,
September 2013, ISSN: 2319-7064.
14. Gaofa He, Chuande Zhou, Zelun Li “Review of Self-Cleaning Method for Solar
Cell Array” Procedia Engineering 16 (2011) 640 – 645.

Mechanical]
EXPERIMENTAL SETUP

Mechanical]

Mechanical]
Name : Prof. Reshma Patil
Email ID : [email protected]
Contact No. : +91 7387952296
Address: Ajit society,Flat no 10 Building

no.22 Yamunanagar Nigdi
Name : Nachiket Subhash Bidwai
Contact No. : +91 8888748520
Address: 1, Rajmudra Residency, Dalvinagar,

Chinchwad, Pune - 411033
Name : Akash Shivaji Patil
Contact No. : +91 9167617029
Address: Lande Hostel, Near Rajmudra Petrol

Pump, Marunji, Tal.- Mulshi, Pune -411057

Mechanical]
Name : Dhiraj Kamalakar Ghorpade
Contact No. : +91 9860752207
Address: 402, Aai Apartment, Lokmanya

Colony, Vivekanand Nagar, Thergaon, Pune -
411057
Name : Juber Mhiboob Attar
Contact No. : +91 7773963117
Address: Rupeenagar, Nigdi, Sec - 22

Mechanical]

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Solar Panel Cleaning System

1.1 Problem Statement

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Research Paper Reading & Study The General Aspect Of topic

Connecting Battery To The Setup

Selection of brush, shaft, bearing and DC motor

Testing The Model And Writing Down The Reading

Figure no. 1.1: Methodology

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Literature review is an assignment of previous task done by some authors, scientists,

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Kiran M R, Rekha G Padaki (2016) The performance analysis of the experimental

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Shaharin A. Sulaiman, Haizatul H. Hussain (2011) Accumulation of dust from the

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

3. CURRENT TECHNIQUES USED

3.1 Manual Washing

Figure no. 3.1: Manual cleaning of solar panel [4]

3.2 Hydraulic Arm Cleaning

This method is semi-automatic in which cleaning mechanism is attached to the hydraulic

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Figure no. 3.2: Hydraulic arm cleaning method [3]

Figure no. 3.3: Spray method [7]

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

3.4 Ecopia E4 Robot

Figure no.3.4: Ecopia E4 Robot

3.5 Dry Cleaning Method

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1. Availability of the materials.

1. Strength: It is the ability of a material to resist the externally applied Forces.

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

percent reduction in area. The ductile materials commonly used in engineering

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4.1 Material Used for Frame and Shaft: Mild Steel

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The general steps to be followed in designing the machine are as followed:

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

5.1 Design of Shaft

Figure no. 5.1: Shaft

We selected a solid circular shaft,

Length of shaft = 300 mm

Syt = Yield Strength = 170 MPa

Sut = Ultimate tensile strength = 290 MPa

Figure no. 5.2: CATIA V5 R18 Model of Shaft

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Figure no. 5.3: CATIAV5 R18 Model of Brush Indicating Density

Other weight considered = 1 kg

Kb = combined shock & fatigue factor for bending = 1.5

Kt = combined shock & fatigue factor for torsion = 1.25

Applying A.S.M.E. Code,

𝜏per = 0.18 × Sut = 0.18 × 290 = 52.2 MPa

𝜏per = 51 MPa (selected)

Alard College Of Engineering And Management [BE

Figure no. 5.4: Vertical loading diagram of shaft

We know that, the equivalent twisting moment,