Autonomous Cleaning Systems: The Future of Cleaning Technology

Autonomous Cleaning Systems: The Future of Cleaning Technology

Autonomous cleaning systems refer to devices that automate cleaning processes and operate without human intervention. These devices use various technologies to perform cleaning tasks more efficiently and effectively. With advanced sensors, artificial intelligence, and robotic technologies, cleaning tasks are completed faster and with greater precision.

Key examples of autonomous cleaning devices include industrial cleaning robots and autonomous vacuum cleaners. These devices can quickly clean large areas, reduce the need for manual labor, and optimize work processes. Sensors collect environmental data and analyze it to determine cleaning routes, avoid obstacles, and clean various surfaces effectively.

The efficiency of solar panels can be greatly enhanced by regular cleaning. Dirty panels cannot convert sunlight into electricity effectively. Autonomous cleaning robots are specially designed to address this problem. These robots efficiently clean the dirt and dust from solar panels.

There are several advantages to using autonomous robots in solar panel cleaning:

Time and Labor Savings: Autonomous cleaning robots can operate without human intervention, saving labor and time.
Effective Cleaning: These robots use specialized brushes and cleaning systems to effectively remove dirt from the panels, boosting energy efficiency and optimizing panel performance.
Ability to Work in Harsh Conditions: Autonomous robots can typically work in harsh weather conditions and at high altitudes, making them particularly advantageous for large and hard-to-reach solar power farms.
Energy Efficiency: Cleaning robots ensure that solar panels operate at maximum efficiency. Since dirty panels cannot absorb sunlight efficiently, regular cleaning can increase energy production.
Safety: Reducing human intervention in high and dangerous areas improves safety by minimizing the risk of injury to cleaning personnel and damage to the panels.

Autonomous cleaning systems modernize cleaning processes and offer significant benefits in specialized applications like solar panel cleaning. These technologies increase efficiency, save labor and time, enhance safety, and optimize energy production.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

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06/08/202410/09/2025

Considerations for Setting Up Solar Power Plants

Solar power plants are a vital component of the renewable energy landscape, providing clean and sustainable electricity. However, the successful establishment of a solar power plant requires careful planning and attention to various factors. Here are key considerations to keep in mind when setting up a solar power plant:

Location Selection: The location of the solar power plant is crucial. It should receive ample sunlight throughout the year. Factors such as geographical position, climate, and shading from nearby structures or vegetation must be considered.

Site Assessment: Conduct a thorough site assessment to determine the suitability of the land. This includes evaluating soil stability, topography, and potential environmental impacts. Proper site assessment ensures optimal installation and minimizes future issues.

Permits and Regulations: Ensure compliance with local, regional, and national regulations. Obtain all necessary permits and approvals before starting the project. This includes environmental impact assessments and grid connection agreements.

System Design: The design of the solar power system should be tailored to the specific site conditions and energy requirements. This includes choosing the right type and number of solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, and other components.

Financial Planning: Develop a comprehensive financial plan, including initial investment, operation, maintenance costs, and potential subsidies or incentives. A detailed financial plan helps in securing funding and ensures the project’s economic viability.

Grid Connection: Plan the grid connection meticulously. This involves determining the capacity of the grid, distance from the site, and the infrastructure required for connection. Ensure the grid can handle the additional power load.

Maintenance Plan: Develop a maintenance plan to ensure the long-term efficiency of the solar power plant. Regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs are essential to maintain optimal performance.

Technology and Equipment: Invest in high-quality technology and equipment. Reliable and efficient solar panels, inverters, and mounting structures are crucial for the plant’s longevity and performance.

Safety Measures: Implement robust safety measures during installation and operation. This includes training for personnel, proper signage, and safety protocols to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.

Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of the solar power plant. Implement measures to mitigate any negative effects on the local ecosystem and promote sustainability throughout the project lifecycle.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 05.08.2024

25/07/202410/09/2025

What Should Be Considered When Cleaning PV Panels?

Pollution in photovoltaic panels creates a layer that prevents sunlight from entering the cell. As the mass of dust accumulation increases, the power output and efficiency of the module decrease. In order to avoid this loss of efficiency, photovoltaic panels must be cleaned correctly and regularly.

Pure deionized water must be used to clean photovoltaic panels. Deionized pure water is free from dissolved substances in the water. Unlike solutions (Acidic, Basic, Alcohol), deionized pure water does not leave stains on the panels. An additional rinse may be required when using a solution. Thus, after cleaning, there is no obstacle to sunlight reaching and absorbing the panel. Detergents and chemical containing products should not be used to clean photovoltaic panels from dust and dirt without being sure of their content. Test reports of the solutions to be used should be examined and the mixture should be prepared and used at the specified concentrations.

If the solution is used in high amounts, marks can be seen on the glass surface of the solar panels and corrosive effects on the sub-construction, as shown in the image.

Cleaning the panels always brings with it the risk of being caught in high voltage. To avoid being electrocuted, the panels should be cleaned with non-conductive deionized pure water. In this way, occupational safety can be protected. When cleaning the photovoltaic panel, care should be taken to ensure that the temperature of the water and the temperature of the panel are at the same rate. Cold water should not be poured on the hot panel. Otherwise thermal shock may occur. Panels may become unusable.

Brushes used for cleaning should not damage the panel surface. During panel cleaning, the panel should not be stepped on and should never be walked on. Due to the weight of the human body, small, invisible cracks may occur on the panel. Serious problems, especially electric shock, may occur due to rainwater leaking into cracks or liquids used for cleaning. Abrasive or hard brushes can scratch the delicate anti-reflective coating on the surface of the panel. These scratches, no matter how small, can scatter incoming sunlight, reducing the amount of light absorbed and converted to electricity. If the brush leaves streaks or debris behind, these act like tiny shadows on the cells and block some of the incoming sunlight, reducing overall power production.

Figure 3. Manual Visualization of the Effect of Stepping on the Panels and the Scratches That Will Occur on the Panel If Appropriate Equipment is Not Used

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 12.07.2024

25/07/202410/09/2025

How Should Solar Panels Be Maintained?

Regular maintenance of solar panels is critical to increase their replacement and ensure their longevity. These maintenance operations include cleaning, physical inspection and various tests. Here are the basic steps to consider in the maintenance of solar panels:

1. Regular Cleaning: Dirt and dust accumulated on parts of the panels break down the absorption of sunlight, reducing energy production. Therefore, the panels need to be cleaned regularly. Cleaning variation varies depending on the conditions of the region. For example, dusty or bird-populated compounds may need to be cleaned more frequently. Correct equipment should be used for cleaning.

2.Physical Checks: The surface of the panels should be checked regularly any damage. Make sure that electrical connections are tight and solid.. The strength and stability of the structure on which the panels are mounted should be checked regularly. It should be checked for signs of rust or loosening.

3.Expert Assistance: Maintenance and testing of solar panels should be carried out by experts when necessary. Especially electrical tests and thermal examinations are procedures that require expertise. This ensures a long life and efficient operation of the panels. Regular maintenance of solar panels is vital to maintain efficiency in energy production and extend the life of the panels. Cleaning, physical checks and electrical tests are essential elements of the maintenance process and must be carried out carefully.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 05.08.2024

25/07/202410/09/2025

How to Increase Energy Efficiency in Solar Panels?

Increasing the energy efficiency of solar panels is of great importance for both environmental sustainability and economic gain. There are several ways to improve energy efficiency in solar panels.

1. Optimum Placement and Angle
The position and angle at which solar panels are placed play a big role in energy production. Panels should be placed to receive maximum sunlight. Solar panel installations are generally aimed at obtaining maximum sun exposure by facing south. Here, storing solar panels at the correct slope provides an optimum efficiency advantage.

2.Benefiting from Modern Technologies
New-generation solar panels have technologies that offer higher efficiency. Replacing existing panels with new and more efficient panels is another way to increase energy production. In addition, monitoring panel performance in real-time using energy monitoring systems and intervening when necessary are important factors that increase efficiency.

3. Regular Cleaning
Dust, dirt, bird droppings and other pollutants accumulated on the surface of solar panels prevent sunlight from reaching the panel surface, reducing energy production. Regular cleaning of panels is critical to maintaining energy efficiency.

4. Regular Maintenance and Control
Checking the panels regularly prevents possible malfunctions and efficiency losses. Periodic checking of ports, inverters and other components maintains the overall health of the system and increases efficiency.

5. Anti-Ghosting
Shading of panels seriously reduces energy production. For this reason, trees, buildings or other structures around the panels should be checked regularly and necessary arrangements should be made.

These methods are just a few of the basic strategies that can be applied to increase the energy efficiency of solar panels. Steps such as regular cleaning and maintenance, optimum placement, prevention of shading and use of modern technologies will provide both environmental and economic benefits in the long term.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 12.07.2024

25/07/202410/09/2025

What Equipment is Used for Solar Panel Cleaning?

Cleaning solar panels is an important maintenance task to maintain their efficiency and ensure maximum energy production. Using the right equipment during the cleaning process ensures effective cleaning while preventing damage to the panels.

Soft Brushes and Cloths

Soft Bristle Brushes: Ideal for cleaning the surface of the panels without scratching them. They are especially effective on large surfaces.
Microfiber Cloths: Effectively removes dust and dirt without scratching the surface.

Cleaning Solutions

- Pure Water: The most common and safest cleaning material. It doesn’t contain chemicals, so it doesn’t damage the surface of the panels.
- Specialized Cleaning Solutions: Solutions recommended by the manufacturer and specifically formulated for cleaning solar panels can be used. These solutions may be effective in removing tough dirt.

Water Brushes and Hoses

- Telescopic Water Brushes: These brushes have long handles that make it easier to reach higher places. They use water flow to make the cleaning process more efficient.
- Hoses: These allow for easy cleaning of large surfaces with adjustable water pressure. Pressure washers can also be used, but the water pressure should be set to a level that doesn’t harm the panels.

Safety Equipment

- Ladders and Scaffolding: Used to access high areas. They should be stable and secure.
- Safety Harnesses and Ropes: Used to minimize the risk of falling when working at height.
- Protective Gloves and Glasses: Protect hands and eyes when working with cleaning solutions and water.

Industrial and Robotic Cleaning Systems

- Industrial Cleaning Systems: Used in large solar power plants, these devices reduce labor and allow faster cleaning under operator control.
- Robotic Cleaning Systems: Used especially in large solar power plants. These systems automatically clean the surface of the panels and save time.

Using the right equipment for solar panel cleaning ensures that the panels are cleaned effectively without damaging their surface. These tools make the cleaning process easier and help achieve maximum energy efficiency.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

25/07/202410/09/2025

How and When Should Solar Power Plant (SPP) Cleaning Be Done?

Solar Power Plant (SPP) cleaning is a critical maintenance process to maintain panel efficiency and maximize energy production capacity. The timing and method of cleaning can vary depending on seasonal transitions and regional pollutants.

Cleaning According to Seasonal Transitions

Spring: In spring, plant pollen, flower dust, and rainwater pollutants can quickly dirty the panels. It is essential to clean the panels, especially at the beginning of the pollen season, which typically occurs in March and April. The cleaning process should use equipment that won’t scratch the panels, and only purified water without chemicals should be used, as pollen can be easily removed with water.

Summer: In the summer, dust and sandstorms can accumulate on the panels, and the high temperatures cause dirt to stick more easily. Cleaning should occur after dust storms or summer rains, ideally during the early morning or late evening hours. The cleaning equipment should not damage the panels.

Autumn: During the autumn months, falling leaves, rain, and wind can lead to dirt accumulation. Especially in October and November, when leaf shedding is at its peak, cleaning should be done. Organic debris like leaves can reduce panel efficiency.

Winter: In winter, snow, ice, and heavy rainfall can cover the panel surfaces. After the snow melts, dirt buildup is common. Cleaning should occur after snow melts, but hot water should not be used to remove ice or snow.

Cleaning According to Regional Pollutants

Industrial Areas: In industrial regions, air pollution, chemical particles, and smoke can accumulate on the panels and reduce efficiency. Cleaning should be done monthly or whenever noticeable pollution is observed. Due to the chemical nature of pollutants, careful cleaning is required in these areas.

Rural and Agricultural Areas: In rural and agricultural zones, dust and organic materials from soil and farming activities can dirty the panels. Cleaning should be done after harvest periods and during increased dust conditions from soil activities.

Coastal Areas: In coastal regions, salty water vapor, sand, and other marine particles can accumulate on the panels, leading to corrosion and dirt buildup. Cleaning should occur seasonally or when significant salt and sand accumulation is observed. To effectively clean salt deposits, purified water and, when necessary, special cleaning solutions should be used.

General Cleaning Recommendations

Safety precautions should be taken during cleaning, including using safe ladders and harnesses for accessing high places.

For large-scale SPPs, professional equipment should be used for cleaning and maintenance. Cleaning and maintenance procedures should be regularly documented and analyzed.

Solar panel cleaning should be done regularly and carefully according to seasonal transitions and regional pollutants. This ensures panel efficiency and longevity. Cleaning should be performed at the right times and with the appropriate methods.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

24/07/202410/09/2025

How to Clean Photovoltaic Panels ?

To ensure photovoltaic (PV) panels produce energy efficiently, they must be cleaned regularly. Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and other contaminants that accumulate on the surface of photovoltaic panels cause shading, leading to a decrease in the panel’s performance.

Determining the Right Time for Cleaning Cleaning should be performed during times when the photovoltaic panels are producing low energy, such as early in the morning or late in the evening. This ensures that cleaning can be done without energy loss.
Preparing the Necessary Equipment When cleaning photovoltaic panels, it is important to use materials that will not damage the surface of the panels. Additionally, a solvent that leaves no residue on the panels after cleaning should be used. For instance, distilled water is ideal since it doesn’t contain solids, preventing streaks or residue on the panels after cleaning.
Inspecting the Surface of the Panels Before starting the cleaning process, the surface of the panels should be inspected for any damage. Cracked or broken panels should not be cleaned and should be referred to an authorized service center for repair.
Cleaning Process To avoid damaging the panels, a soft brush or cloth should be used. Abrasive materials or stiff brushes should never be used. The panels should be washed with pure water, which is applied evenly across the surface to help loosen the dirt. If there is concern about mineral content in the water, low-mineral water can be used. For heavily soiled panels, soap or special cleaning solutions recommended by the manufacturer can be used to help remove the dirt. After using soap or solutions, the panels should be rinsed thoroughly with water to ensure no chemical residues remain on the surface.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance Regular inspections and determining the appropriate cleaning frequency are important for long-term efficiency. Panels in dusty or polluted areas may need to be cleaned more frequently.

Photovoltaic panel cleaning is one of the key ways to maintain and increase energy efficiency. Regular and proper cleaning extends the lifespan of the panels and ensures maximum energy production. Therefore, care should be taken during cleaning, and the manufacturer’s guidelines should always be followed.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 23.12.2024

24/08/202310/09/2025

Solar Panel Cleaning and Safety

Solar energy is becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly and sustainable energy source. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for optimizing solar panel performance and ensuring a long-lasting system.

Here are some important safety precautions and expert recommendations to consider during solar panel cleaning:

1. The Importance of Solar Panel Cleaning

Dust, dirt, bird droppings, and other external factors can accumulate on solar panels, covering the surface and reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning helps solar panel systems produce more energy and last longer.

2. Best Time for Solar Panel Cleaning

The best time to clean solar panels is when weather conditions are favorable, and the panels are cool. Early mornings or around sunset, when the sun is not at its peak, are ideal times for cleaning.

3. Safety Precautions

Solar panel cleaning can involve working at heights, so taking the right safety measures is crucial. Here are some safety tips for a secure cleaning process:

Proper Training:
It is important that those cleaning the solar panels have received adequate training. Being knowledgeable about safety is key to preventing accidents.
Safety Equipment:
Proper safety gear prevents falls and injuries. Safety harnesses, appropriate footwear, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn. Necessary equipment is shown in the visual below.
Work Area Safety:
If cleaning is done on a roof, ensure that ladders or scaffolds used are stable. The area should be free of obstacles, and a safe working space should be established. When working at heights, minimize the weight of equipment being carried.
Electrical Connections:
Solar panels may carry high voltage while active. Before cleaning, check the energy connections to ensure there are no issues.

4.Cleaning Materials:
When cleaning solar panels, choosing the right cleaning materials is crucial. Avoid abrasive or harmful chemicals. The fastest, most effective, and safest solution is to use robotic cleaning systems.The visual below shows the damage to the galvanizing coating on the panel construction after chemical usage, leading to rusting.

5.Professional Assistance:
To minimize safety risks and errors, it is important to use professional cleaning equipment. This will not only extend the lifespan of the panels but also increase their efficiency. By procuring professional equipment, you can clean solar panels in-house, saving time while boosting panel longevity and electricity production.

Solar panel cleaning is a critical process for improving energy efficiency and extending the system’s lifespan. However, it is important not to overlook safety precautions and to work with proper equipment. By following expert advice, you can clean solar panels safely and effectively. Remember, your health and safety should always be your top priority.

Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 24.12.2024

25/05/202310/09/2025

Why Does Energy Loss Occur in Solar Panels ?

Why does energy loss occur in solar panels ?

Energy loss in solar panels can occur due to various factors:

Reflection and Absorption: When sunlight strikes a solar panel, part of it reflects off the surface, while the rest is absorbed by the panel. This reflection and absorption can lead to energy loss. To mitigate this, anti-reflection and absorption-enhancing processes are applied during the manufacturing of solar panels.
Temperature: High temperatures can cause solar panels to lose energy. As the temperature rises, the efficiency of solar panels decreases, with efficiency dropping by about 0.5% per degree Celsius.
Shading: When a solar panel is partially shaded, it generates less power. This is because the shaded cells do not produce electricity, resulting in energy loss.
Cable Resistance: The cables used to connect solar panels may have resistance that causes energy loss. This can occur if the wires are too thin or too long, leading to a voltage drop. Therefore, careful selection of cables is important.
Dirt and Pollution: The accumulation of dirt and debris on a solar panel’s surface reduces the amount of sunlight the panel absorbs, leading to energy loss.
Inverter Losses: Solar panels produce direct current (DC) electricity, but most homes use alternating current (AC). An inverter is used to convert the DC electricity to AC. However, this conversion process is not perfect, and some energy is lost during the transformation.
Aging and Wear: Over time, wear and tear can reduce the efficiency of solar panels. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to maintain optimal performance.

Impact of Pollution: When it comes to pollution, the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other pollutants on solar panels’ surfaces can reduce efficiency and decrease electricity production. Pollutants block sunlight from reaching photovoltaic cells, which decreases the amount of energy that can be collected.

Research conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that a layer of dust on a solar panel could reduce efficiency by up to 25%. The study also revealed that air pollution, such as fog, could reduce solar panel efficiency by up to 17%.

In addition to reducing energy production, pollution can also cause physical damage to solar panels. For example, acid rain can corrode the surface of panels, which, over time, leads to a decrease in efficiency. Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to mitigate the effects of pollution on solar panels. Pollution can also lead to other factors that cause energy loss.

When the surface of a solar panel is covered with dirt, dust, or other pollutants, the amount of sunlight that reaches the photovoltaic cells is reduced.

This decreases the amount of energy that can be collected, resulting in lower energy production. Dirt and dust can also create hotspots on solar panels, areas where cells reach higher temperatures than the surrounding cells, which can damage the panel and reduce efficiency.Pollutants such as acid rain can corrode the surface of solar panels over time. This causes physical damage to the panel, reducing efficiency and shortening its lifespan.

Pollutants can also cause micro-cracks on the surface of solar panels, leading to electrical faults and lower performance. If pollutants remain on the surface for too long, they can damage the inverter, leading to decreased efficiency and energy production.

To prevent these issues, it is important to clean solar panels regularly to remove accumulated pollutants. Regular cleaning ensures that panels operate at maximum efficiency and produce the highest amount of energy possible.

Cleaning solar panels with a robot offers several advantages over manual cleaning methods:

Faster Cleaning: A robot can clean a large number of solar panels in less time, improving overall efficiency. This is especially beneficial for large solar energy installations where manual cleaning is time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Safety: Cleaning solar panels, especially at height, can be dangerous. Using a robot reduces the risk of accidents and injuries, making the cleaning process safer for workers.
Consistent Cleaning: Robots ensure that all panels are cleaned evenly and efficiently. They apply a controlled pressure, cleaning the panels quickly without damaging them. This leads to improved performance and increased energy production.
Cost-Effectiveness: Using a robot eliminates the need for manual labor, reducing costs. Additionally, robots decrease the risk of damaging the panels during cleaning, further reducing repair costs.
Overall Efficiency: Using a robot to clean solar panels results in increased performance and efficiency, lower costs, and is an attractive option for solar panel owners and operators.

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Prepared by: Batuhan Mert LAÇİNKAYA
For your questions: batuhanlacinkaya@rob-sys.com
Date: 05.12.2024

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