Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a solar sheet installation device that is capable of determining an area on a slopped metallic surfaces where a user desires to apply a solar sheet and accordingly applying the solar sheet on the metallic surfaces in a precise and automated manner.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The installation of solar sheets onto various surfaces, especially those that are sloped or metallic, presents significant challenges. Traditional methods often require extensive manual labor, precise alignment, and substantial effort to ensure proper adhesion. These conventional techniques are typically time-consuming and may not always result in optimal placement, which impact the efficiency and durability of the installed solar sheets. Furthermore, installing solar sheets on sloped surfaces is particularly problematic due to the difficulty of maintaining stability and achieving accurate positioning.

[0003] Existing solutions for solar sheet installation generally involve manual placement and adjustment, which not only demands significant human resources but also increases the likelihood of errors in alignment and adhesion. To address these issues, there is a need for an automated device that can precisely determine the area of application and manage the installation process with minimal human intervention. Such a device would ideally integrate advanced means to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and ease of use. The current invention aims to overcome these challenges by providing a device that autonomously identifies the target area on sloped metallic surfaces and applies the solar sheet in a controlled, automated manner and to enhance the installation process by improving precision, reducing manual labor, and ensuring a secure and efficient application of solar sheets.

[0004] JP2023143864A discloses about an installation structure of capable of easily installing a solar power sheet with flexibility on an installation surface such as a roof surface and capable of easily peeling off the solar power sheet from the installation surface while suppressing a power generation unit from being damaged, and a construction method of the solar power sheet.SOLUTION: An installation structure 100 of a solar power sheet includes: a solar power sheet 1 that is a solar power sheet 1 with flexibility including a power generation unit 3; an installation surface 9 on which the solar power sheet 1 is installed; and a fixing member 7 that is interposed between the solar power sheet 1 and the installation surface 9 to fix the solar power sheet 1 to the installation surface 9. The fixing member 7 extends along one direction of the solar power sheet 1, and in multiple parts except the power generation unit 3 and spaced apart from each other in the other direction orthogonal to one direction, fixes the solar power sheet 1 to the installation surface. Although, JP’864 is capable of easily installing a solar power sheet with flexibility on an installation surface, such as a roof, however the device fails to autonomously identify the target area on sloped metallic surfaces and apply the solar sheet with high accuracy and without any manual intervention.

[0005] JP2023143606A discloses about an installation structure of a solar power sheet capable of suppressing vibrations of a solar power sheet 1 by the wind in a state in which the solar power sheet is installed on an installation surface.SOLUTION: An installation structure 2 of a solar power sheet 1 of the present invention includes: an installation surface 3; a solar power sheet 1 installed over the installation surface 3; and an adhesive 4 that is placed between the outer periphery 18 of the solar power sheet 1 and the installation surface 3 for adhering the solar power sheet 1 to the installation surface. Although, JP’606 discloses an installation structure for a solar power sheet, however the device fails to determine the target area for solar sheet application, ensuring precise placement and alignment in an automated manner.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed for installing solar sheets on various surfaces, focusing on either manual or semi-automated methods, however, the conventional devices fails in terms of automation, precision, and adaptability to challenging surfaces, such as sloped or irregularly shaped metallic surfaces in order to install the solar sheets.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that autonomously determining the target area on diverse surfaces, including sloped metallic ones, and applying the solar sheets with high accuracy and efficiency.

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 determines an area on a slopped metallic surfaces where a user desires to apply a solar sheet and accordingly applying the solar sheet on the metallic surfaces in a precise and automated manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that applies consistent pressure to the solar sheets during installation that regulates the force applied to ensure optimal adhesion and performance of the sheets.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is reliable, user-friendly and easy-to-operate.

[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 a solar sheet installation device that identifies and assess a specific area on sloped metallic surfaces where a user intends to apply a solar sheet and ensures precise and efficient application of the solar sheet without any manual intervention.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a solar sheet installation device comprises of a cuboidal housing having four telescopic rods attached underneath the housing provided with motorized omnidirectional wheels for locomotion of the housing, plurality of electromagnets installed within the wheels for gripping onto sloped metallic surfaces, a storage chamber disposed within the housing for storing of solar sheets, in form of a spool of the sheet provided on a motorized roller installed within the chamber, a pair of hydraulic actuators installed at a front surface of the housing, an elongated rectangular plate mounted at front ends of the actuators by means of hinges for applying pressure on laid solar sheet, a sliding unit having a clamp installed along a length of the actuators for gripping and adjusting position of the solar sheet while applying, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit in synchronization with a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor installed on the housing to determine an area of the surface on which solar sheets are to be applied, a microphone provided on the housing for receiving an audio command from the user regarding, a pressure sensor embedded in the plate detects a pressure applied by the actuators to relay the detected pressure for pressure regulation, a touch-enabled display unit provided on the housing for enabling the user to provide touch input regarding initiating or concluding the process of application of solar sheets and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[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 an isometric view of a solar sheet installation 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 a solar sheet installation device that is capable of autonomously identifying and assessing a specific area on sloped metallic surfaces where a user intends to apply a solar sheet. The device ensures precise and efficient application of the solar sheet through automated processes, thereby enhancing the accuracy and ease of installation while minimizing manual effort.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a solar sheet installation device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal housing 101 having four telescopic rods attached underneath the housing 101 provided with motorized omnidirectional wheels for locomotion of the housing 101, plurality of electromagnets installed within the wheels, a storage chamber 102 disposed within the housing 101, a spool of the sheet provided on a motorized roller installed within the chamber 102, a pair of hydraulic actuators 103 installed at a front surface of the housing 101, an elongated rectangular plate 104 mounted at front ends of the actuators 103, a sliding unit 105 having a clamp 106 installed along a length of the actuators 103, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107 installed on the housing 101, a microphone 108 provided on the housing 101, a touch-enabled display unit 109 provided on the housing 101.

[0022] The proposed device herein comprises of a cuboidal housing 101 developed to be positioned on a ground surface, wherein the housing 101 is constructed from a durable, lightweight material such as aluminum alloy or reinforced polycarbonate. Aluminum alloy is favored for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, providing robustness while keeping the overall weight of the device manageable, which is crucial for mobility, especially on sloped surfaces.

[0023] The housing 101 is configured with four telescopic rods and the ends of the rods are provided with motorized omnidirectional wheels for maneuving the housing 101 on ground surface. Plurality of electromagnets installed within the wheels for gripping onto sloped metallic surfaces. A storage chamber 102 is disposed within the housing 101 for storing of solar sheets, in form of a spool of the sheet provided on a motorized roller installed within the chamber 102.

[0024] A pair of hydraulic actuators 103 installed at a front surface of the housing 101, wherein an elongated rectangular plate 104 is mounted at front ends of the actuators 103 by means of hinges for applying pressure on laid solar sheet. A sliding unit 105 having a clamp 106 is installed along a length of the actuators 103 for gripping and adjusting position of the solar sheet while applying.

[0025] A user access a microphone 108 provided on the housing 101 and linked with an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device for receiving an audio command from the user to trigger actuate an imaging unit 107 in synchronization with the LIDAR sensor installed on the housing 101 to determine an area of the surface on which solar sheets are to be applied. The microphone 108 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a thin, flexible material such as metal or plastic. When sound waves reach the microphone 108, they cause the diaphragm to vibrate.

[0026] These vibrations are directly proportional to the variations in air pressure caused by the sound waves. The diaphragm is coupled to a coil of wire, as the diaphragm vibrates, the coil moves within a magnetic field, inducing an electric current in the wire. This current is proportional to the amplitude and frequency of the sound waves. The electrical signal generated by the diaphragm-coil is transmitted to the microcontroller.

[0027] The microcontroller on receiving the signals actuates the imaging unit 107, wherein the imaging unit 107 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 107 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 107 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.

[0028] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates the LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor, wherein the LiDAR sensor uses laser light to detect and measure distances of objects or targets such that a laser beam is emitted towards the object and scattered beam is collected by the sensor. The differences in laser return times and wavelength carry information about the area of the surface and the information is converted into an electrical signal which is sent to the microcontroller for processing. The microcontroller processes the received data both from the imaging unit 107 and the LiDAR sensor, thereby determining the area of the surface on which solar sheets are to be applied.

[0029] Based on determining the area, the microcontroller actuate the wheels to translate to the area. The wheels are powered by are powered by a DC (Direct Current) motor, which convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. When the housing 101 receives electric current from an external source, the DC motors generate rotational force. This force is then transmitted to the wheels via a gearbox, which converts the rotary motion into linear motion, propelling the housing 101 forward, backward, or sideways as required. The motorized omnidirectional wheels are designed to move independently, allowing the housing 101 to change direction smoothly and precisely by adjusting the speed and direction of each wheel individually, thus translates the housing 101 to the area.

[0030] The microcontroller then actuates the motorized roller to dispense the solar sheets onto the area. The roller is linked with a DC (direct current) motor to provide the required power to the roller to rotate in a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction in order to wind or unwind the solar sheet. The motor comprises of a coil that converts the received electric current into mechanical force by generating magnetic field, thus providing the required power to the roller to rotate on its own axis thereby dispensing the solar sheets on the surface of the area.

[0031] The microcontroller then actuates the sliding unit 105 to translate the clamp 106 to adjust position of the sheet. The sliding unit 105 include sliding rack and rail, such that the clamp 106 are mounted over the racks that are electronically operated by the microcontroller for moving over the rails. The sliding unit 105 is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller by providing required electric current to the motor. 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 clamp 106 to adjust position of the sheet.

[0032] The microcontroller then actuates the clamp 106, wherein the clamp 106 are powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller by providing required electric current to the motor. 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 clamp 106 thus extending/retracting for clasping the sheet and adjusting the position of the sheet on the surface.

[0033] The microcontroller actuates a pair of hydraulic actuators 103 installed at a front surface of the housing 101, wherein an elongated rectangular plate 104 is mounted at front ends of the actuators 103 by means of hinges for applying pressure on laid solar sheet. The hydraulic actuator 103 function based on the principle of utilizing a confined fluid, typically oil or hydraulic fluid, to generate mechanical force. The actuator 103 consists of a cylinder containing a piston that separates the cylinder into two chambers.

[0034] One chamber is filled with the hydraulic fluid, while the other is typically empty or filled with a lower-pressure fluid. When pressure is applied to the fluid in the filled chamber, it exerts force on the piston, causing it to move. The force generated is directly proportional to the pressure applied and the effective area of the piston, thereby positioning the rectangular plate 104 on the laid solar sheet.

[0035] The microcontroller then actuates the hinges to provide movement to the plate 104 which in turn applies pressure on the sheet for adhesion of sheet on the surface. The hinge comprises of a pair of leaf that is screwed with the surfaces of the plate 104. The leaf are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinge. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise aids in opening and closing of the hinge respectively. Hence the microcontroller actuates the hinge that in turn provides movement to the plate 104 for applying pressure onto the sheet by the plate 104 for adhesion.

[0036] A pressure sensor is embedded in the plate 104 to detect pressure applied by the actuators 103 on the sheet. The pressure sensor includes a transducer, such that when the plate 104 applies pressure on the sheet, then force is exerted by the actuators 103 on the sheet via the plate 104. The exerted force causes deflection within a diaphragm inside the transducer. The deflection is monitored by the transducer and is further converted into an electric signal that is received by the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received pressure and detects the pressure applied by the actuators 103 on the sheet and accordingly the microcontroller regulates the pressure of actuators 103 over the laid solar sheet.

[0037] A touch-enabled display unit 109 is provided on the housing 101 for enabling the user to provide touch input regarding initiating or concluding the process of application of solar sheets. The display unit 109 consists of multiple layers, including a transparent conductive layer such as indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass, which forms the surface that users directly touch. Beneath the layer lies a grid of electrodes, typically made of a conductive material like copper or silver, arranged in rows and columns.

[0038] When the user touches the display unit 109, it creates a measurable change in capacitance at the point of contact, altering the electrical field between the electrodes. This change is detected by the controller circuitry embedded within the display unit 109, which interprets the position and intensity of the touch. The controller then converts this data into digital signals representing user inputs, which are further processed by the microcontroller in accordance to which the microcontroller initiates or concludes the process of application of solar sheets.

[0039] The device is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the device. The battery within the device is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the device derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the device.

[0040] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 is positioned on the ground surface, where the microcontroller activates the motorized omnidirectional wheels to maneuver the housing 101 across the surface. These wheels are equipped with electromagnets that grip sloped metallic surfaces, ensuring the housing 101 remains secure and stable during movement. Once the housing 101 is positioned, the microcontroller activates the imaging unit 107 and LIDAR sensor to scan and map the surface where the solar sheets will be applied to identify the exact location for application of solar sheets. With the target area determined, the microcontroller commands the motorized roller within the housing 101 storage chamber 102 to begin dispensing the solar sheet from the spool. As the sheet is unrolled, the sliding unit 105 with an integrated clamp 106 adjusts the sheet’s position along the length of the housing 101, ensuring precise alignment. The hydraulic actuators 103 at the front of the housing 101 are then extended, pressing an elongated rectangular plate 104 against the sheet to apply uniform pressure, securing it to the surface. The pressure sensor embedded within the plate 104 continuously monitors the applied force based on which the microcontroller regulates the pressure on the sheet. The touch-enabled display and the microphone 108 allows for both touch and voice commands for the user as per the requirement.

[0041] 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) A solar sheet installation device, comprising:

i) a cuboidal housing 101 having four telescopic rods attached underneath said housing 101, wherein ends of said rods are provided with motorized omnidirectional wheels for a locomotion of said housing 101;
ii) a plurality of electromagnets installed within said wheels for gripping onto sloped metallic surfaces;
iii) a storage chamber 102 disposed within said housing 101 for storing of solar sheets, in form of a spool of said sheet provided on a motorized roller installed within said chamber 102;
iv) a pair of hydraulic actuators 103 installed at a front surface of said housing 101, wherein an elongated rectangular plate 104 is mounted at front ends of said actuators 103 by means of hinges for applying pressure on laid solar sheet;
v) a sliding unit 105 having a clamp 106, installed along a length of said actuators 103 for gripping and adjusting position of said solar sheet while applying; and
vi) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 107, in synchronization with a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor embedded on said housing 101, installed on said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, to determine an area of said surface on which solar sheets are to be applied to trigger a microcontroller to actuate wheels to translate to said area and said roller dispense said sheets onto said area, said sliding unit 105 to translate said clamp 106 to adjust position of said sheet and said actuators 103 and hinges to apply pressure onto said sheet by said plate 104 for adhesion.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a microphone 108, linked with said microcontroller, provided on said housing 101 for receiving an audio command from said user regarding to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said imaging unit 107 in synchronization with said LIDAR sensor to determine an area of said surface on which solar sheets are to be applied to actuate wheels to translate to said area and said roller to dispense said sheet onto said area, said sliding unit 105 to translate said clamp 106 to adjust position of said sheet and said actuators 103 and hinges to apply pressure onto said sheet by said plate 104 for adhesion.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pressure sensor embedded in said plate 104 detects a pressure applied by said actuators 103 to relay said detected pressure to said microcontroller for pressure regulation.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a touch-enabled display unit 109, linked with said microcontroller, is provided on said housing 101 for enabling said user to provide touch input regarding initiating or concluding said process of application of solar sheets.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.