Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an autonomous solar panel maintenance device, designed to assist users in efficiently cleaning solar panel s, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of solar energy systems while reducing manual labor, energy consumption, and maintenance costs, providing a sustainable, eco-friendly solution for solar panel upkeep.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The maintenance of solar panel s is essential to ensure their optimal performance, longevity, and efficiency in converting sunlight into energy. Over time, solar panel s can accumulate dirt, dust, debris, and even snow, which can block sunlight and reduce their efficiency. Regular maintenance helps to identify and address issues such as dirt buildup, corrosion, or physical damage to the panel s, ensuring they continue to operate at peak capacity. Proper maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of the panel s, maximizing the return on investment. Moreover, it helps prevent more costly repairs by detecting problems early, such as cracks or electrical issues. As solar energy systems become more widely adopted, maintaining solar panel s has become a vital part of ensuring sustainable energy production. Without proper upkeep, solar panel s may not deliver the expected energy output, impacting energy savings and the environmental benefits associated with solar power systems.

[0003] Traditional methods for maintaining solar panel s typically involve manual cleaning with brushes, cloths, or water to remove dirt, dust, and debris from the surface. In some cases, pressure washing or using harsh chemicals may also be employed to clean panel s. Additionally, visual inspections are often conducted to check for physical damage, wear, or corrosion. While these methods can be effective, they come with several drawbacks. Manual cleaning is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and may pose a risk of scratching or damaging the solar panel s if not done properly. Pressure washing, if not carefully controlled, can cause damage to the panel s or electrical components. Furthermore, these methods do not always address underlying issues, such as micro-cracks or internal damage that may affect the panel 's efficiency. Moreover, manual inspection is subjective, leaving room for human error in detecting more subtle damage or performance issues. These limitations highlight the need for more efficient, automated maintenance solutions to ensure optimal performance.

[0004] WO2013072711A2 is a device for the cleaning of solar cell panel s, having a frame for housing the individual units, a box fixed to the frame containing the operating units, a cleaner rail , and a driver for the movement of the latter. It has independent power and liquid supply, the frame has upper caterpillars used for longitudinal movement along the solar cell panel moving on the upper surface of the solar cell panel and side caterpillars used for movement on the edge of the solar cell panel , and the cleaner rail has a cart having upper wheels rolling on the frame and lower wheels preventing upward movement, as well as a driver connecting the frame and the cart and moving the cart on the frame , and the cleaner rail contains a cleaning liquid spraying unit and a wiping unit .

[0005] KR102167473B1 relates to a device which periodically automatically cleans various pollutants such as yellow dust, algae feces, and snowfall buried in a solar panel . The present invention implements a new type of cleaning device which selects a mechanism which selectively positions a nozzle for cleaning the solar panel on a front or rear side to position the nozzle to the front side so as to perform a cleaning work when cleaning, and to return the nozzle to the rear side after cleaning, thereby sufficiently cleaning an entire area of the solar panel and increasing power generation efficiency of the solar panel . Moreover, the cleaning device of the solar panel selects a method for automatically cleaning the solar panel periodically after a certain period of time by linking the cleaning work of the nozzle and timer operation to enable the solar panel to secure a function of the solar panel at all times by maintaining the solar panel in a clean condition at all times, and to improve overall efficiency of the cleaning device such as maintenance and management.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available for cleaning solar cell panel s, but these devices typically lack the ability to detect and address various contaminants, such as dry debris, stubborn stains, and dirt, in an automated or adaptive manner. Furthermore, these devices often do not ensure the safe cleaning of sensitive panel surfaces, risking damage during the cleaning process. As a result, users are left with inefficient or potentially harmful solutions, without the precision needed to maintain the panel s' optimal performance and protect their delicate surfaces from wear and tear during cleaning.

[0007] To overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there is a need in the art to develop a device that aids users in cleaning solar panel s by effectively detecting and addressing various contaminants, such as dry debris, stubborn stains, and dirt, using advanced sensing technologies. Additionally, this device should ensure the safe cleaning of sensitive surfaces, preventing potential damage to the panel s, preserving their efficiency, and enhancing their longevity, while automating the cleaning process to provide a more efficient, precise, and user-friendly solution for maintaining optimal solar panel performance.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that assists users in cleaning solar panel s by detecting and addressing various contaminants, including dry debris, stubborn stains, and dirt, while also ensuring the safe cleaning of sensitive surfaces, providing an efficient, automated solution for maintaining panel performance without causing damage or compromising efficiency.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of detecting cracks on the surface of a solar panel , and automatically providing means to restore the panel 's integrity and functionality, ensuring that any damage is promptly addressed to maintain optimal performance and extend the panel ’s lifespan without compromising its efficiency.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of efficiently removing snow from the surface of a solar panel , ensuring unobstructed sunlight absorption, preventing potential damage, and maintaining the panel 's optimal performance during winter conditions by utilizing automated mechanisms that safely clear snow without causing harm to the panel ’s surface or structure.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to an autonomous solar panel maintenance device to assist users by automatically cleaning solar panel s, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency through self-operating mechanisms that reduce manual labor and improve energy production by maintaining panel s free from dirt, debris, and environmental contaminants.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an autonomous solar panel maintenance device, comprising a cuboidal body to be positioned on a ground surface by means of multiple motorized wheels via a telescopically operated link, a touch interactive display panel mounted on the body to provide input details regarding cleaning of a solar panel pre-installed in proximity to the body, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body detect exact positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body, a sliding roof mechanism mounted at an upper portion of the body comprising multiple cleaning plates equipped with bidirectional sliding units for effective and targeted cleaning of solar panel s, a color sensor installed on the plates to detect presence of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or snow over the solar panel , multiple cleaning tools mounted on underside of each cleaning plates, including soft rotating brushes, microfiber wipers, spray nozzles, and ultrasonic cleaning unit for optimal cleaning, a robotic arm attached with the body with rectangular flap having multiple pins via a linear actuator break and displace snow from the panel surface, an infrared (IR) sensor integrated with the body detect cracks in solar panel , a small impact mechanism utilizing an extendable bar installed on the body applies controlled force at various points on panel surface, a microphone mounted underside the plate analyze sound patterns to pinpoint crack locations, a protective sealing mechanism comprising soft silicone strips with suction cups, mounted on said body, create a secure, sealed boundary over cracked area to isolate the crack during cleaning process, an electronic sprayer connected with a box mounted underside the plate dispenses the resin over the crack, restoring panel ’s integrity and functionality.

[0015] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an autonomous solar panel maintenance device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0018] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0019] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0020] The present invention relates to an autonomous solar panel maintenance device that automatically assists users in cleaning solar panel s, effectively removing dirt, debris, and environmental buildup to enhance the panel s' performance, increase energy production, and reduce the need for manual labor and maintenance.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of an autonomous solar panel maintenance device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal body 101 by means of multiple motorized wheels 102 via a telescopically operated link 103, a touch interactive display panel 104 mounted on the body 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on the body 101, a sliding roof mechanism 106 mounted at an upper portion of the body 101 with multiple cleaning tools including soft rotating brushes 108, water spray nozzles 117 with a vessel mounted on said platform, microfiber wiper 120 attached with a robotic link, a robotic arm 109 attached with the body 101 with rectangular flap 110 having multiple pins 111 via a linear actuator, a small impact mechanism 112 utilizing an extendable bar 113 installed on the body 101, a microphone 114 mounted underside the plate, a protective sealing mechanism 115 comprising soft silicone strips with suction cups mounted on the body 101, an electronic sprayer 116 connected with a box mounted underside the plate and plurality of motorized clippers 107 mounted on front section of sliding roof mechanism 106.

[0022] The device proposed herein includes a cuboidal body 101 that is developed to be positioned on a ground surface in proximity to a solar panel for maintenance. The body 101 as mentioned herein serves as a structural foundation to various components associated with the device, wherein the body 101 is made up of material that includes but not limited to stainless steel, which in turn ensures that the device is of generous size and is light in weight.

[0023] The housing is equipped with multiple motorized wheels 102 in association with a microcontroller, wherein the wheels 102 are installed with support of multiple telescopically operated link 103 to maneuver the housing throughout the surface. The telescopically operated link 103 helps to maintain an optimum distance between the base of the housing and the surface to enable the device to supervise the condition of the solar panel, for effectiveness in the maintenance process.

[0024] In order to activate functioning of the device, a user is required to manually switch on the device by pressing a button positioned on the body 101, wherein the button used herein is a push button. Upon pressing of the button, the circuits get closed allowing conduction of electricity that leads to activation of the device and vice versa.

[0025] Upon activation of the device by the user, the microcontroller linked to the switch generates a command to activate a touch interactive display panel 104 mounted on the body 101 for enabling the user to provide input details regarding cleaning of a solar panel pre-installed in proximity to the body 101. The touch interactive display panel 104 as mentioned herein is typically an (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details regarding a requirement of cleaning of a solar panel pre-installed in proximity to the body 101. The touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).

[0026] In response to input commands of the user, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on the body 101 to detect exact positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body 101. The imaging unit 105 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images in the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 105 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 105 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines exact positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body 101.

[0027] Based on the determined positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body 101, the microcontroller actuates a sliding roof mechanism 106 mounted at an upper portion of the body 101 for positioning of multiple cleaning plates, integrated with the mechanism 106 and equipped with bidirectional sliding units, over the solar panels. The sliding roof mechanism 106 operates by using an electric motor connected to a series of gears, tracks, and pulleys to smoothly slide the plates. The motor comprises of a coil that converts the received electric current into mechanical force by generating magnetic field, thus the mechanical force provides the required power to the rack to provide sliding movement to the multiple cleaning plates in order to translate the plates over the solar panels.

[0028] A color sensor installed on the plates detect presence of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or snow over the solar panel. The color sensor works by analyzing the light reflected from the panel's surface to detect the presence of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or snow, on the solar panel. The sensor emits light and measures the reflected wavelengths, comparing them to preset values corresponding to clean surfaces. When contaminants like dust or snow block or alter the reflection, the sensor detects a change in color or brightness. This data is then processed by the microcontroller for detecting the presence of contaminants over the solar panel.

[0029] In response to the detected presence of contaminants over the solar panel, the microcontroller actuates bidirectional sliding units to move the plate in both horizontal and vertical directions for positioning the plates over the contaminants for effective and targeted cleaning of solar panels. The A bidirectional sliding units provide movement in two axes simultaneously. The bidirectional sliding units are designed to control both horizontal (side-to-side) and vertical (up-and-down) movement of plates. The bidirectional sliding units use electric motors and precise gear mechanisms to control the movement of the plates. The bidirectional sliding units comprises of a pair of sliding rail assembled perpendicular to each other and on actuation the gear mechanism translates the plates in two directions for positioning the plates over the contaminants for effective and targeted cleaning of solar panels.

[0030] In case the contaminates is detected to be dry debris, a soft rotating brushes 108 included in multiple cleaning tools mounted on underside of each cleaning plates is actuated by the microcontroller to gently remove the contaminants. The brush rotates at a controlled speed, ensuring it doesn't scratch or damage the panel surface. The motion of the rotating brush dislodges the dry debris, such as dust or dirt, and sweeps it away, restoring the panel's surface for optimal sunlight absorption and maintaining the efficiency of the solar panel system without the risk of abrasive damage.

[0031] The soft rotating brushes 108 work by utilizing an electric motor to drive gentle, soft bristles that rotate at controlled speeds. When activated, the brushes 108 move across the surface of the solar panel, dislodging contaminants like dust, dirt, or dry debris without causing damage. The rotating action sweeps the contaminants away, ensuring the surface remains clean for optimal solar energy absorption. The softness of the bristles prevents scratching, while the motorized mechanism ensures consistent and efficient cleaning, and maintaining the panel 's performance, reducing the need for manual cleaning and minimizing risk of surface damage.

[0032] In case the contaminates is detected to be stubborn stains, the microcontroller actuates water spray nozzles 117, included in the multiple cleaning tools, to dispense biodegradable solutions on the solar panel from a vessel mounted on the platform. The water spray nozzles 117 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity to get sprayed. Upon actuation of nozzles 117 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the biodegradable solutions, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the solution to be sprayed out with a high force on the solar panel, in view of removing stubborn stains over the solar panel.

[0033] The microcontroller then actuates a robotic link 103 included in multiple cleaning tools for wiping the solar panel gently via a microfiber wiper 120, provided with the link 103. The robotic link 103 is made of several segments that are attached together by joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the robotic link 103 to complete a specific motion of the link 103. Upon actuation of the robotic link 103 by the microcontroller, the motor drives the movement of the link 103 for gently wiping the solar panel via the microfiber wiper 120 for streak-free cleaning.

[0034] For cleaning of sensitive surfaces of the solar panel, ultrasonic cleaning units included in multiple cleaning tools to remove the contaminants. The ultrasonic cleaning units utilize high-frequency sound waves to create tiny bubbles in a liquid cleaning solution. These bubbles implode upon contact with the surface, generating microscopic vibrations that gently remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants without causing damage. The ultrasonic waves provide a thorough and uniform cleaning, reaching into crevices and delicate areas for an effective cleaning of the solar panel, ensuring no abrasion or scratches, while maintaining optimal performance and longevity of the panels.

[0035] In case the microcontroller detects accumulation of snow over the solar panel, the microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 109 attached with the body 101 for positioning a rectangular flap 110 integrated with the arm 109 over the panel. The robotic arm 109 comprises of a robotic link 103 and a clamp attached to the link 103. The robotic link 103 is made of several segments that are attached together by joints also referred to as axes. Each joint of the segments contains a step motor that rotates and allows the robotic link 103 to complete a specific motion of the arm 109. Upon actuation of the robotic arm 109 by the microcontroller, the motor drives the movement of the clamp to position the rectangular flap 110 over the panel.

[0036] Upon positioning of rectangular flap 110 over the panel, the microcontroller actuates a linear actuator provided with the flap 110 to break and displace snow from surface of the panel via multiple pins 111 connected to the actuator. The linear actuator works by driving the pins 111 connected to the actuator to break and displace snow from the surface of a solar panel. When activated, the actuator moves along a linear path, causing the pins 111 to protrude and apply force to the snow layer. The pins 111 break up the snow, dislodging it from the panel's surface. The movement of the actuator ensures that the pins 111 are evenly distributed across the panel, effectively clearing the snow without damaging the sensitive surface, helping to restore the panel's efficiency by improving sunlight exposure.

[0037] The pins 111 are integrated with heating coils that are activated by the microcontroller to apply heat to the snow to soften the snow and reduces amount of mechanical force required by the linear actuator. The heating coils apply controlled heat to the snow covering a solar panel, effectively softening the snow and reducing the mechanical force needed for removal. When activated, the coils generate heat that is evenly distributed across the surface, gradually melting or loosening the snow. This process lowers the snow's density, making it easier to displace or remove with minimal physical effort. By softening the snow, the heating coils help prevent damage to the solar panel's surface while enhancing the efficiency of snow removal, ensuring the panel remains free from obstruction and continues to absorb sunlight effectively.

[0038] An infrared (IR) sensor integrated with the body 101 detects cracks in solar panel by identifying temperature variations. The infrared (IR) sensor detects cracks in a solar panel by identifying temperature variations across the surface. When a crack forms, it disrupts the panel’s material, causing localized temperature differences due to changes in heat absorption and dissipation. The IR sensor scans the surface, capturing the infrared radiation emitted by the panel. Cracked areas typically show distinct temperature patterns, which are detected by the sensor. These variations are analyzed by the microcontroller to pinpoint the location of cracks, allowing for early detection of damage and preventing further deterioration or performance loss in the solar panel.

[0039] An extendable bar 113 installed on the body 101 is then actuated by the microcontroller to apply a controlled force at various points on panel surface via a small impact mechanism 112 provided with the bar 113. The extension/retraction of the extendable bar 113 is powered pneumatically by the microcontroller by employing a pneumatic unit associated with the bar 113 , including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the bar 113 . The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the bar 113 and due to applied pressure the bar 113 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the bar 113 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the bar 113 in order to apply a controlled force at various points on panel surface via the small impact mechanism 112.

[0040] The controlled force applied at various points on panel surface generates a distinct sound pattern over the crack areas, which are analyzed by a microphone 114 integrated with a machine learning module to detect and pinpoint crack locations on a surface by analyzing distinct sound patterns emitted from the crack areas. When cracks form, they often produce specific acoustic frequencies or vibrations. The microphone 114 captures these sounds, and the machine learning module processes the audio data to identify patterns associated with cracks. By training on known sound signatures of crack-induced noises, the microcontroller accurately locate and differentiate crack areas on the solar panel.

[0041] In response to the located crack areas on the solar panel, a protective sealing mechanism 115 comprising soft silicone strips with suction cups, mounted on said body 101, is actuated by the microcontroller to get deployed in order to create a secure and sealed boundary over cracked area. The protective sealing mechanism 115 consists of soft silicone strips with suction cups that are actuated by a microcontroller to deploy over cracked areas. Upon detecting a crack, the microcontroller activates the protective sealing mechanism 115, causing a telescopic rod with hinge joints to extend and align silicone strips precisely over the damaged surface. The suction cups then engage, securely adhering to the panel and creating a sealed boundary around the crack. This protective seal helps prevent further damage, moisture infiltration, or debris accumulation while providing temporary protection until the crack can be properly repaired, ensuring the integrity and performance of the surface.

[0042] Post cleaning, the microcontroller actuates an electronic sprayer 116 connected with a box mounted underside the plate and stored with UV (Ultraviolet) curable resin to dispense the resin over the crack. The microcontroller regulates operation of the electronic sprayer 116 in the same manner as the spray nozzles 117 to dispense the resin over the crack, thereby restoring panel’s integrity and functionality.

[0043] During the cleaning operations, plurality of motorized clippers 107 mounted on front section of sliding roof mechanism 106 are dynamically regulated by the microcontroller to securely grip corners of solar panel. The motorized works utilizing electronic motors to securely grip the corners of a solar panel using precise, controlled movement. When activated, the motors drive the clippers 107 to gently but firmly engage with the panel's corners. The clippers 107 are equipped with adjustable grips or jaws that conform to the edges, ensuring a secure hold without damaging the surface and maintaining a firm grip to stabilize the panel during maintenance or cleaning.

[0044] Multiple electromagnetic springs positioned between the housing and sliding roof mechanism 106 are activated by the microcontroller to absorb and mitigate any impact or vibration during the cleaning process. The electromagnetic springs work by utilizing the force of electromagnets combined with spring tension to absorb and mitigate impact or vibrations during the cleaning process of solar panels. When vibrations or impacts occur, the electromagnetic springs adjust in real-time, using magnetic fields to control the spring's compression and expansion. This action dampens the energy from impacts, reducing any shock transmitted to the solar panel.

[0045] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is preferably a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0046] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the cuboidal body 101 that is developed to be positioned on the ground surface in proximity to the solar panel for maintenance. Upon activation of the device by the user, the microcontroller generates the command to activate the touch interactive display panel 104 for enabling the user to provide input details regarding cleaning of the solar panel pre-installed in proximity to the body 101. In response to input commands of the user, the microcontroller activates the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 to detect exact positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body 101. Based on the determined positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to the body 101, the microcontroller actuates the sliding roof mechanism 106 for positioning of multiple cleaning plates over the solar panels. The color sensor detect presence of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or snow over the solar panel. In response to the detected presence of contaminants over the solar panel, the microcontroller actuates bidirectional sliding units to move the plate in both horizontal and vertical directions for positioning the plates over the contaminants for effective and targeted cleaning of solar panels. In case the contaminates is detected to be dry debris, the soft rotating brushes 108 is actuated by the microcontroller to gently remove the contaminants. In case the contaminates is detected to be stubborn stains, the microcontroller actuates water spray nozzles 117to dispense biodegradable solutions on the solar panel from the vessel mounted on the platform. The microcontroller then actuates the robotic link 103 for wiping the solar panel gently via the microfiber wiper 120, provided with the link 103. For cleaning of sensitive surfaces of the solar panel, ultrasonic cleaning units included in multiple cleaning tools to remove the contaminants. In case the microcontroller detects accumulation of snow over the solar panel, the microcontroller actuates the robotic arm 109 for positioning the rectangular flap 110 over the panel. Upon positioning of rectangular flap 110 over the panel, the microcontroller actuates the linear actuator to break and displace snow from surface of the panel via multiple pins 111.

[0047] In continuation, upon positioning of rectangular flap 110 over the panel, the microcontroller actuates the linear actuator provided with the flap 110 to break and displace snow from surface of the panel via multiple pins 111 connected to the actuator. The infrared (IR) sensor detects cracks in solar panel by identifying temperature variations. The extendable bar 113 is then actuated by the microcontroller to apply the controlled force at various points on panel surface via the small impact mechanism 112. The controlled force applied at various points on panel surface generates the distinct sound pattern over the crack areas, which are analyzed by the microphone 114 detect and pinpoint crack locations on the surface by analyzing distinct sound patterns emitted from the crack areas. In response to the located crack areas on the solar panel, the protective sealing mechanism 115 is actuated by the microcontroller to get deployed in order to create the secure and sealed boundary over cracked area. Post cleaning, the microcontroller actuates the electronic sprayer 116 to dispense the resin over the crack.

[0048] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An autonomous solar panel maintenance device, comprising:

i) a cuboidal body 101 developed to be positioned on a ground surface configured with multiple motorized wheels 102 to maneuver said body 101 over a ground surface, wherein a telescopically operated link 103 attached in between each of said wheels 102 and body 101 to stabilize said platform over said surface;
ii) a touch interactive display panel 104 mounted on said body 101 that is accessed by a user to provide input details regarding cleaning of a solar panel pre-installed in proximity to said body 101, wherein a microcontroller linked with said display panel 104 upon receiving said user’s commands activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on said body 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of surroundings, respectively to detect exact positioning and dimensions of solar panel present in proximity to said body 101;
iii) a sliding roof mechanism 106 mounted at an upper portion of said body 101, comprising multiple cleaning plates equipped with bidirectional sliding units that move in both horizontal and vertical directions for effective and targeted cleaning of solar panels, wherein a color sensor is installed on said plates to detect presence of contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or snow over said solar panel;
iv) multiple cleaning tools mounted on underside of each cleaning plates, including soft rotating brushes 108, microfiber wiper 120, spray nozzles 117, and ultrasonic cleaning unit, where based on said detected type of contaminants over said solar panel, said microcontroller activates an appropriate cleaning tool for optimal cleaning performance;
v) a robotic arm 109 attached with said body 101 and integrated with rectangular flap 110 as an end-effector, wherein in case said microcontroller detects accumulation of snow over said solar panel, said microcontroller actuates said robotic arm 109 for positioning said flap 110 over said solar panel, followed by actuation of multiple pins 111 connected to a linear actuator provided on the said flap 110, to break and displace snow from said panel surface efficiently;
vi) an infrared (IR) sensor integrated with said body 101 to detect cracks in solar panel by identifying temperature variations, wherein a small impact mechanism 112 utilizing an extendable bar 113 installed on said body 101 applies controlled force at various points on panel surface, where an impact generates a distinct sound pattern over crack areas;
vii) a microphone 114 mounted underside said plate and machine learning module integrated within said microphone 114 analyze sound patterns to pinpoint crack locations, wherein a protective sealing mechanism 115 comprising soft silicone strips with suction cups mounted on said body 101 are deployed to create a secure, sealed boundary over cracked area to isolate said crack during cleaning process, ensuring said crack remains protected;
viii) a telescopic rod with hinge joints allow said silicone strips to move in any direction across said solar panel, said rod assisted by a slider mechanism, ensuring flexible and adaptive placement around crack area, wherein post cleaning said microcontroller actuates an electronic sprayer 116 connected with a box stored with UV (Ultraviolet) curable resin and mounted underside said plate dispenses said resin over said crack, restoring panel’s integrity and functionality.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cleaning tools include soft rotating brushes 108 for dry debris, water spray nozzles 117 with biodegradable solutions stored in a vessel mounted on said platform for stubborn stains, microfiber wiper 120 attached with a robotic link 103 for streak-free cleaning, and ultrasonic cleaning units for sensitive panel surfaces.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of motorized clippers 107 are mounted on front section of sliding roof mechanism 106, dynamically regulated by said microcontroller to securely grip corners of solar panel during cleaning operations, and electromagnetic springs are positioned between said housing and sliding roof mechanism 106 to absorb and mitigate any impact or vibration during cleaning.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein heating coils are integrated into said pins 111, regulated by said microcontroller to apply heat to said snow, which softens said snow and reduces amount of mechanical force required by said linear actuator, thereby ensuring quicker and more effective snow removal.